Valium for Anxiety.

Using Valium for Anxiety

Valium is a fast-acting and long-lasting central nervous system depressant that is highly effective at combating the often debilitating symptoms of anxiety. This prescription-only medication targets the neurotransmitter directly related to this mental illness: Gamma-aminobutyric acid, better known as GABA.

GABA plays a major role in regulating central nervous system signals and has a calming effect when activated. It acts as an inhibitor, slowing down the messages between the brain and the all-important spinal cord. GABA agonists like Valium increase the effects of this naturally occurring chemical, which causes the muscles to relax, and heart and breathing rate to slow–effectively combating the main symptoms of an anxiety attack.

Available in pill and liquid form (as well as a less common rectal tube), individuals who take Valium for anxiety will have the lowest dosage, from 2mg up to 10mg, which can be taken up to three times a day. It can take 30-90 minutes for the effects to be felt.

Risks & Side Effects

Valium’s efficacy is also part of its shortcomings. It is so potent that it has high abuse and addiction risks, even when prescription dosages are closely followed. Additionally, it has a remarkably long half-life, meaning it can take between 50-120 hours for a single dosage to be eliminated from the body, significantly increasing the risk of toxicity and a Valium overdose.

Valium and other types of benzos such as Xanax, Halcion, Ativan, and Klonopin are central nervous system depressants. The mechanisms that induce feelings of calm and relaxation also lower the body’s responsiveness to the brain’s cues on how quickly to breathe or the heart to beat. As such, Valium users most often experience symptoms related to poor circulation from reduced cardiovascular functioning or a lack of oxygen from slowed breathing.

Symptoms

In addition to those, mild symptoms of a Valium overdose include drowsiness, confusion, and lethargy. Severe cases can include a loss of coordination as well as slowed reflexes, slowed or slurred speech, and muscle weakness. Coma and death are quite rare but do occur, especially when Valium has been taken with other CNS depressants.

The majority of the symptoms of too much Valium aren’t outwardly facing and can be difficult to detect by an observer. Look for these indications that someone might be showing signs of a Valium overdose:

• Bluish tint to the lips
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Itching
• Tremors
• Valium Drug Interactions

The risk of experiencing side effects (and severe ones, at that) increases significantly when Valium is taken with other drugs. Alcohol, opioids, and even other benzos can quickly become deadly. However, there are several other seemingly harmless substances that could potentially cause an adverse reaction:

• Antacids
• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Antipsychotics
• Anticonvulsants
• Birth control
• Certain herbal supplements
• Heart medications
• HIV/AIDs medications

Although Valium is highly proficient at reducing the symptoms of anxiety, it’s a medication that must be used with caution. Having the help of knowledgeable mental health professionals can help you safely navigate Valium’s narrow margin of safe dosing so that you can feel like you again with minimal risk of harmful side effects. Find the nearest mental health rehab facility today.

Sources:

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/013263s094lbl.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537022/

https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Benzodiazepenes-2020_1.pdf

https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/opioids/benzodiazepines-opioids

https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/Drugs/Diazepam