Diazepam (Valium)

Question 1

Diazepam (Valium)

Class

Answer 1

• Benzodiazepine
• Sedative-hypnotic
• Anticonvulsant

Question 2

Diazepam (Valium)

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

• Potentiates effects of inhibitory neurotransmitters
• Raises sz threshold
• Induces amnesia and sedation

Question 3

Diazepam (Valium)

Indications

Answer 3

• SZ activity
• Acute anxiety states
• Delerium tremens
• Muscle relaxant
• Agitation
• Analgesia for medical procedures
  
  • (cardioversion, fracture reduction)

Question 4

Diazepam (Valium)

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Hypersensitivity
• Glaucoma
• Coma
• Shock
• Substance abuse
• Head injury

Question 5

Diazepam (Valium)

Adverse reactions

Answer 5

• Resp depression
• Hypotension
• Drowsiness, confusion
• Ataxia
• Reflex tachycardia
• Thrombosis, phlebitis
• Nausea

Question 6

Diazepam (Valium)

Drug interactions

Answer 6

• Incompatible with most drugs and fluids
  
  • Always use a saline flush

Question 7

Diazepam (Valium)

Dosage and administration

Answer 7

Adult:

• SZ: 5-10 mg IV q 10-15 min as needed (approx 1mg/min)
  
  • Max of 30 mg
• Cardioversion: 5-15 mg IV over 5-10 min prior to cardioversion

Ped:

• SZ: 0.2-0.5 mg slow IV q 2-5 min up to 5 mg
  
  • Max dose 10 mg/kg
• Rectal: 0.5 mg/kg via catheter and flush with 2-3 mL of air

Question 8

Diazepam (Valium)

Duration of action

Answer 8

• Onset: 1-5 min
• Peak: In minutes
• Duration: 20-50 min

Question 9

Diazepam (Valium)

Special considerations

Answer 9

• Pregnancy: Cat D
• Short duration of anticonvulsant effect
• Reduce dose 50% in elderly pt