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NERVOUS SYSTEM › PSYCHOLEPTICS › ANXIOLYTICS › Benzodiazepine derivatives
diazepam
N05BA01
Forms & Strengths
- Tablets: 2mg, 5mg, 10mg
- Oral solution: 5mg/5mL
- Rectal solution: 5mg/2.5mL, 10mg/2.5mL
- Injectable solution: 5mg/mL
Adult Dosing
- Anxiety: 2-10mg 2-4 times daily
- Alcohol withdrawal: 10mg 3-4 times daily
- Muscle spasm: 2-10mg 3-4 times daily
- Seizures: 5-10mg IV/IM every 15-30 minutes as needed
Pediatric Dosing
- 0-6 months: 1-2mg 3-4 times daily
- 6-12 months: 2-3mg 3-4 times daily
- 1-5 years: 2-5mg 3-4 times daily
- 5-12 years: 2-10mg 2-4 times daily
Indications
- Anxiety disorders
- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
- Muscle spasm
- Seizure disorders
- Sedation for medical procedures
Mechanism of Action
- Enhances activity of neurotransmitter GABA
- GABA increases inhibitory effects on neuronal excitability
- Resulting in sedative, anxiolytic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diazepam or benzodiazepines
- Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
- Severe respiratory depression
- Sleep apnea syndrome
- Pregnancy and lactation
Adverse Reactions
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Ataxia
- Memory impairment
- Dependence and withdrawal
- Respiratory depression
- Hypotension
Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants: additive sedative effects
- Anticonvulsants: decreased efficacy of diazepam
- Rifampin: decreased efficacy of diazepam
- Cimetidine: increased levels of diazepam
- Theophylline: decreased levels of theophylline
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use