31)
Valium
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine with CNS depressant properties and a somewhat
flatter dose-response slope than the sedative-hypnotic drugs. In laboratory
animals, it produces, in varying doses, taming, disinhibitory, sedative,
anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, ataxic and hypnotic effects.
Diazepam is relatively devoid of autonomic effects and does not
significantly reduce locomotor activity at low doses, or depress
amphetamine-induced excitation. In high doses, it activates the drug
metabolizing enzymes in the liver. Diazepam also possesses dependence liability
and may produce withdrawal symptoms, but has a wide margin of safety against
poisoning
The
most common adverse effects reported are drowsiness and ataxia. Other reactions
noted less frequently are fatigue, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, diplopia,
vertigo, headache, slurred speech, tremors, hypoactivity, dysarthria, euphoria,
impairment of memory, confusion, depression, incontinence or urinary retention,
constipation, skin rash, generalized exfoliative dermatitis, hypotension,
changes in libido.
The
more serious adverse reactions occasionally reported are leukopenia, jaundice,
hypersensitivity and paradoxical reactions.
Paradoxical reactions such as hyperexcited states, anxiety,
excitement, hallucinations, increased muscle spasticity, insomnia, rage, as
well as sleep disturbances and stimulation, have been reported; should these
occur, the drug should be discontinued.
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