Many people experience some fear and anxiety at various times in their lives. Those with anxiety disorders are affected by fear to such a degree that they cannot function or live a normal life without the help of drugs. One of the most effective and prevalent drugs for anxiety disorder is diazepam.

More than 10% of Americans take some type of anxiolytic. The most popular today is Xanax, but diazepam is not far behind.

Diazepam, or Valium as most people know it, is an anxiolytic or anti-panic agent. It works by releasing the amino acid GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. GABA works to suppress nerve impulses that lead to a feeling of relaxation.

Although it is a very useful and positive drug in treating anxiety disorders, as well as insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures, anyone taking it for anxiety should also be aware of its negative aspects.

Valium is habit-forming and highly addictive. Self-medicating with diazepam is a bad idea. because you can easily develop a dependency on it, especially if you take it in large doses over a long period of time. Diazepam should only be taken under the care of a doctor and never more than the prescribed dose. Due to its addictive properties, you may experience withdrawal symptoms when your doctor finally stops you without taking the drug.

Valium is harsh on the kidneys and liver. If you have cirrhosis of the liver, any type of abnormal kidney function, or any other medical problem in the liver, you should inform your doctor. Your dosage may need to be drastically lowered or lowered entirely. It can be taken with or without food and is metabolized by the liver and excreted mainly by the kidney. Valium doses may need to be reduced in patients with abnormal kidney function.

Valium can also cause drowsiness and dizziness in some people. Until you are sure of how your body will react, you should avoid driving, playing sports, or doing strenuous activities while taking it. A very striking effect of this drug is that it accumulates in the body. So even if you haven’t taken it for a while, you may feel tired or sluggish for no apparent reason. It is very possible that it is due to the accumulation of the drug in your body.

Note that if you take antacids while taking Valium, the antacids will work to neutralize the drug, making it less effective. Therefore, it may not have the desired calming effect on your nervous system.

Although diazepam is sometimes used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, this should only be done under the care of a doctor. Normally, no one taking diazepam should drink alcohol. Mixing the two could possibly trigger an epileptic fit. Do not take it if you are pregnant or nursing your baby unless directed by your doctor. There is strong evidence that it can harm the fetus. In the case of breastfeeding, diazepam is retained in breast milk, which means that it will be passed to the baby possibly causing addiction.

Diazepam is an extremely useful drug and many people who suffer from anxiety would have a more difficult time without it. Just be careful when taking it.