Is Valium safe?

The answer to this question in dealing with any powerful drug is a qualified yes. So long as you follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist, there should be no problems. But if you decide to self-medicate, deciding for yourself when to take this drug and at what dosage, there are some risks. The longer you take Valium, the harder it will be to stop. You will suffer withdrawal symptoms unless you carefully reduce the dosage over several months. This is something you should discuss with your doctor.

Have you a history of addiction?

This is a time for honesty. If you have problems in controlling your need to drink alcohol or to use either prescription or street drugs, you should not start taking Valium. It will tempt you into dependence and it can be difficult to stop. There will also be problems if you drink alcohol while taking Valium. You are likely to find the side effects of dizziness and drowsiness increase. Your vision may also blur.

How old are you?

As a general rule, today’s doctors do not prescribe Valium to anyone under the age of 18 years. The exception to this rule is either for the treatment of a seizure disorder like epilepsy, or in a hospital environment to relax a patient before a surgical procedure, e.g. an endoscopy is best performed when people are relaxed. The smallest possible dose should be given to children and teens.

At the other end of the age spectrum, Valium should only be given at the lowest possible dosages and under careful supervision. Elderly patients are prone to fall and, because the drug stays active in the bloodstream for longer, it is easy to cause side effects by taking the next pill too soon. It can cause confusion and, in some, aggressive behavior.

Are you planning a family?

If is taken during the later stages of a pregnancy, the baby can be born addicted and suffer almost immediate withdrawal symptoms upon birth. These symptoms can continue for several months and will be reinforced if you continue to take Valium while you breast-feed.