Generic diazepam has several names-one of them being Valium. It is often prescribed for patients affected by anxiety disorders. As this falls in the class of benzodiazepine drugs, its therapeutic benefits are countless. Although there is always a risk which needs to be understood and tackled on both ends of the stick: by the patient and healthcare professional. This blog unties what uses, dosages, side effects, and mechanism of action of valium. Know the better use of valium for anxiety disorders and their action in your body according to your gene that is tested with pharmacogenetic tests or PGx testing.

What Is Valium?

Valium is the brand name for a prescription medicine called diazepam. It is used mainly to treat the more severe phases of anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, seizures, and the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol. Valium serves to increase the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid within the brain, inducing a calming effect that reduces anxious mood states and promotes relaxation.
Valium for anxiety disorders can be given in various forms, including tablet, liquid, injectable, and rectal gel, though tablets are given orally in most cases. Several precautions have to be observed regarding the use of Valium for anxiety disorders as it can become habit-forming and lead to withdrawal symptoms if taken otherwise than prescribed by a medical doctor.

Types and Dosages of Valium for anxiety disorders

There are several types of Valium, and the dose depends on the particular medical condition. Here are the common types of Valium along with the usual dosages:

Preparations of Valium:

Tablets: This is the most commonly prescribed preparation. It will be administered orally.
Oral Solution: In some cases, patients face difficulties in swallowing tablets. In such cases, this oral solution is administered.
Injectable Solution: In hospitals or clinical medicine, it is administered to create immediate effects.
Rectal Gel: It is usually administered for the treatment of fits.

Dosages of Valium for anxiety disorders

Valium Tablets come in the following dosages:

• 2 mg
• 5 mg
• 10 mg

Valium Side Effects

Since any drug can cause side effects, the effect of Valium may vary for the period taken. Here’s a closer look at both short-term and long-term side effects:

Short-term Side Effects

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Confusion
• Headache
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision

Long-term Side Effects

• Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
• Memory loss
• Degeneration of cognitive function
• Depression/ anxiety disorder
• Tolerance builds up; result to become more forceful for the same effect.
• Coordination problems
• Increased risk of fall and fractures, especially in elderly population

How Does Valium Work in the Brain and Body?

Valium is utilized for the following purpose: It acts with a potentiation influence on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) – the CNS’ main inhibitory neurotransmitter. It functions through the following mechanism of action:

Mechanism of Action:

GABA Enhancement:

• Valium is an agonist that stimulates the GABA-A receptor sites in the brain. GABA causes the opening of the ion channels and chloride ions are allowed to flow into the neuron.
• Valium increases the rate of chloride channel openings, thereby increasing the inflow of chloride ions.

Neuronal Inhibition:

• The inflow of chloride ions hyperpolarized the cell membrane making the neuron less likely to fire an action potential.
• It does this by sedating the brain and body, thus diminishing the symptoms of anxiety, inducing relaxation in the muscles, and providing anticonvulsant properties.

Pharmacogenetic Testing and Valium

At Rph Labs, we realize that the future of medication lies in personalized drugs. Pharmacogenetic tests will give doctors an insight into how a patient’s unique genetic makeup may affect his or her sensitivity to different medications, including Valium. A healthcare provider can treat a patient appropriately by individualizing the prescription using the PGx gene test and avoid dosing-related side effects and optimize treatment.

Benefits of PGx Testing for Valium

• Customized Care: Based on the genetic factors that impact the metabolism of drugs, the best dose for a patient can be identified.
• Less Possibility of Side Effects: Calculating the patient’s capability to metabolize Valium decreases the possibility of negative side effects.
• Higher Success Rates: PGx testing by healthcare providers increases the overall success rates in the treatment of anxiety through prompt identification of the ideal medications and the dosing levels.

Important consideration

Although Valium is so effective for treating anxiety over the short term, there are also some critical points to bear in mind:

• Risk Factors: Elderly patients, those with diminished renal function, and those with severe respiratory diseases may experience increased risks. For patients with psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder or substance use disorders, close follow-up with the prescriber is critical to prevent misuse and dependence.
• Contraindications: Some conditions need careful assessment before a prescription for Valium, such as acute narrow-angle glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, serious hepatic insufficiency, and breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Valium for anxiety disorders can be a good treatment choice if taken responsibly in the medical prescription of a healthcare professional. The use of pharmacogenetic tests from Rph Labs will provide better optimization of outcomes while reducing risks. It is also important to know Valium for anxiety disorders advantages and disadvantages to ensure its safe and effective use. If you or someone you know needs Valium for the treatment of anxiety, consult a healthcare provider for the most effective approach based on individual needs.

Reference

https://californiaprimerecovery.com/valium-for-anxiety-benefits-risks-and-important-considerations/