Valium
Valium (diazepam) is a prescription medication that is in the benzodiazepine family of drugs and is a central nervous system depressant. Valium is commonly prescribed by medical professionals to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety or panic disorders. Because this medication is addictive, usage of this medication is not recommended to extend beyond two to four weeks, because individuals will become tolerant to the medication which can lead to substance abuse.
As prescribed, Valium can be an effective treatment for anxiety and panic disorders but when taken over a prolonged period of time individuals become tolerant to the medication thus requiring them to take larger doses of the drug in order to achieve the same effect as it had initially. Individuals who are prescribed this medication should not increase their dosage without talking to their doctor first because they can become addicted to the medication. Some of the effects associated with Valium use or abuse include: drowsiness, dizziness, memory loss, depression, lack of coordination and appetite, diarrhea, muscle cramps, slurred speech and confusion.
Individuals who are addicted to Valium should not discontinue the use of the drug without first consulting a medical professional because the side effects of withdrawal can be dangerous to them. Trying to cease this medication following addiction to fast can lead to seizures, delusions, suicide or suicidal ideation, psychosis, confusion, mania, convulsions, catatonia or coma.
