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As any other prescription medicine, Valium has certain side-effects, which may occur during its use. The usual side-effects with Valium include drowsiness, muscle weakness, fatigue and ataxia. The following side-effects have also been observed:
- confusion
- depression
- dysarthria
- headache
- slurred speech
- tremor
- vertigo
- constipation
- nausea
- gastrointestinal disturbances
- blurred vision
- diplopia
- dizziness
- hypotension
- stimulation
- restlessness
- acute hyperexcited states
- anxiety, agitation
- aggressiveness
- irritability
- rage
- hallucinations
- psychoses
- delusions
- increased muscle spasticity
- insomnia
- incontinence
- changes in libido
- urinary retention
- skin reactions
- changes in salivation
Antegrade amnesia can be observed with therapeutic dosages of Valium, and the risk increases at higher dosages.
In rare cases Valium has caused neutropenia and jaundice, so it is recommended to undertake periodic blood counts and liver function tests during long-term courses of Valium.
It is strongly recommended to not use Valium while taking other centrally acting agents for they may interact and result in unforeseen and sometimes quite unpleasant side-effects. Be extremely cautious and consult with your doctor about using Valium with the following groups of drugs: sedatives, anticonvulsants, phenothiazines, antipsychotics, hypnotics, anesthetics, sedative antihistamines, narcotics, barbiturates, antidepressants.
Using Valium with alcohol is not recommended for it may increase the sedative effects of both substances.
Certain medicines can prolong the sedative effects of Valium. So be cautious when using Valium in conjunction with cimetidine, ketoconazole, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and omeprazole. |
