How should I take Valium (diazepam)?
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Take Valium (diazepam) exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you do not understand these instructions, ask your
pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. |
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Take each oral dose with a full glass of water. |
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To ensure the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of
Valium (diazepam) with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with
a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring
device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. |
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Your doctor or nurse will give you detailed instructions
for administration of the Diastat rectal gel. In general,
application of the rectal gel is as follows: |
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Remove the protective cover from the medication syringe
and lubricate the rectal tip with lubricating jelly. |
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Turn the person on their side facing you. Bend the upper
leg forward and separate the buttocks to expose the rectum. |
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Gently insert the syringe tip into the rectum. The rim
should be snug against the rectal opening. Slowly count out
loud to three while gently pushing the plunger in until it
stops. Slowly count to three before removing the syringe.
Slowly count to three and hold the buttocks together to
prevent leakage. |
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Keep the person on their side facing you, note the time
the medication was given, and observe the person for signs of
seizure, skin color, breathing, or any unusual reaction. |
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Do not take Valium (diazepam) more often or in larger
doses than is prescribed. |
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Valium (diazepam) is habit forming. You can become
physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do
not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take
it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal
effects may occur if Valium (diazepam) is stopped suddenly
after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may
recommend a gradual reduction in dose. |
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Store Valium (diazepam) at room temperature away from
moisture and heat. |
What happens if I miss a dose?
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Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if
it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed
and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not
take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be
dangerous. |
What happens if I overdose?
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Seek emergency medical attention. |
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Symptoms of a Valium (diazepam) overdose include
sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, a slow heart beat,
difficulty breathing, difficulty walking and talking, an
appearance of being drunk, and unconsciousness. |
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