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Generic Name: diazepam

A benzodiazepine anticonvulsant - It is used to treat anxiety and nervousness

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What is this medicine?

DIAZEPAM (dye AZ e pam) is a benzodiazepine. It is used to treat anxiety and nervousness. It also can help treat alcohol withdrawal, relax muscles, and treat certain types of seizures.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions

an alcohol or drug abuse problem
bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis or other mental health condition
glaucoma
kidney or liver disease
lung or breathing disease
myasthenia gravis
Parkinson's disease
seizures or a history of seizures
suicidal thoughts
an unusual or allergic reaction to diazepam, other benzodiazepines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. If you have been taking this medicine regularly for some time, do not suddenly stop taking it. You must gradually reduce the dose or you may get severe side effects. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice. Even after you stop taking this medicine it can still affect your body for several days.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

cimetidine
grapefruit juice
herbal or dietary supplements like kava kava, melatonin, St. John's Wort, or valerian
medicines for anxiety or sleeping problems, like alprazolam, lorazepam, or triazolam
medicines for depression, mental problems or psychiatric disturbances
medicines for HIV infection or AIDS
prescription pain medicines
rifampin, rifapentine, or rifabutin
some medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, or primidone

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your body can become dependent on this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you still need to take it.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy and fainting spells, do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds or allergies without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients can increase possible side effects.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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