Diazepam

Question 1

Action

Answer 1

Works by affecting the way certain chemicals in your brain pass messages to your brain cells. It has a calming effect on various functions of your brain.

Question 2

Timeline

Answer 2

Dose is individualised. May be a single dose or several.

Question 3

How to take

Answer 3

Various formulations - tablet, rectal….

Question 4

Length of treatment

Answer 4

Short term - no more than 4 weeks.

May need to reduce dose slowly - avoid withdrawal.

Question 5

Effects - time before

Answer 5

Work quickly

Question 6

Tests

Answer 6

-

Question 7

Important side effects

Answer 7

Can impair your reactions - don’t drive until you know how it affects you.
Feeling sleepy, weak or light headed - don’t drink alcohol
Confusion and forgetfulness
Feeling / being aggressive

Question 8

Complications & contraindications

Answer 8

Addiction
Conditions that cause weakness e.g. myasthenia gravis
Renal / liver impairement

Question 9

Supplementary advice

Answer 9

Don’t drink alcohol

Don’t drive / operate machinery unless you know how it affects you