DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Question 1

Generic/Trade Name

DIAZEPAM

Answer 1

Valium®

Question 2

Generic/Trade Name

Valium®

Answer 2

DIAZEPAM

Question 3

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Drug Classification:

Answer 3

Anticonvulsant

Benzodiazepine

Sedative

Anxiolytic

Question 4

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Mechanism of Action:

Answer 4

Positive allosteric modulator for GABA_A receptors ⇒ Binds to benzo receptor site on chloride channels and potentiates binding and effects of GABA

(increases intracellular Cl- concentration leading to hyperpolarization of the cell)

Question 5

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 5

Onset of Action = 1-5 minutes IV, 15-30 minutes IM

Peak Effects = 10 minutes IV, 30-45 minutes IM

Duration of Effect = 15-60 minutes

Half-Life = 20-50 hours

Question 6

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Indications & Contraindications

Answer 6

Indications/Field Use:
• Major motor seizures
• Pre-medication for cardioversion
• Acute anxiety

Contraindications:
• Hypersensitivity

Question 7

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions:

Answer 7

Hypotension

Tachycardia

hallucinations

drowsiness

HA

amnesia

respiratory depression

blurred vision

N+V

Question 8

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Adult & Pedi Dose:

Answer 8

Anxiety (ADULT): 2-5mg IV, IO

Seizures (ADULT): 5-10mg IV, IO

Amnesia (ADULT): 5-15mg IV, IO

(PEDI): 0.1-0.2mg/kg IV, IO; max dose 5mg

Question 9

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Precautions:

Answer 9

• May cause local venous irritation
• Do not give faster than 1mL/min
• Have benzo antagonist available

Question 10

DIAZEPAM (Valium®)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Answer 10

Additive effects with CNS depressants and alcohol