Quick answer
What is diazepam used for?
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine medicine used short-term to relieve severe anxiety, muscle spasm and acute seizures. It causes drowsiness and can lead to dependence, so doctors prescribe the lowest dose for the shortest possible course. It should never be combined with alcohol, and you should not drive if it affects your alertness or coordination.
Licensed uses of diazepam
Diazepam is licensed for the short-term relief of acute severe anxiety, muscle spasm and seizures, and it is also used in specialist settings for alcohol withdrawal. It is sometimes given as a pre-medication before certain procedures to help people relax.
Risks of taking diazepam
The main risks of diazepam are dependence, an increased risk of falls in elderly people, and cognitive impairment such as memory or concentration problems. A paradoxical reaction, where the medicine causes agitation instead of calm, can occur but is rare.
Alternatives to diazepam for anxiety
For longer-term anxiety, SSRIs and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are generally preferred, since diazepam is not intended as a long-term solution. Buspirone and beta-blockers may also be used depending on the situation.
Taking diazepam safely
Diazepam should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the briefest course needed to control symptoms. It is a controlled drug, so it should never be shared with anyone else.
Common questions about diazepam
- How long can I take diazepam for?
- Diazepam is normally taken for a few days up to a maximum of two to four weeks when used for anxiety. Courses for muscle spasm are similarly short, because the risk of dependence rises the longer it is taken.
- Can I drive while taking diazepam?
- Driving while impaired by diazepam is illegal, and the medicine label carries a warning about this. You should avoid driving until you know how the medicine affects you, since it can cause drowsiness and slow your reactions.
- Can I drink alcohol while taking diazepam?
- Alcohol should never be combined with diazepam, because together they can dangerously depress your breathing. This combination can be life-threatening, so it is best avoided completely.
- What happens if I stop diazepam after taking it for a long time?
- Stopping diazepam suddenly after long-term use can be dangerous and may cause seizures. A gradual taper under medical guidance is essential to stop safely.