Valium

Valium, or diazepam, was the second benzodiazepine ever produced, following Librium. It is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, moderate to severe stress, convulsions and severe muscle strain. It is a central nervous system depressant. Valium can be found in tablet, liquid, or capsule form. It can also be injected and snorted. It is highly addictive and when combined with alcohol can depress lung and heart functions that can cause death. Those suffering from depression have experienced adverse psychiatric reactions when taking Valium.

Signs and Symptoms for Valium Abuse

Drowsiness
Abdominal Cramps
Reduced Sex Drive
Confusion
Headache
Nausea
Slurring of Speech
Dizziness
Shakiness
Urinary Retention
Impaired Motor Function

Long-term side effects include depression, liver disease, impotence, loss of bladder control, emotional and intellectual incapacity, and tremors. Using Valium with alcohol can result in death.

Societal Cost of Valium Abuse
Valium is addictive. Because it works on the central nervous system, it is dangerous to drive, operate machinery or perform other activities that are dangerous. Unintended accidents are always a problem associated with drug abuse, including the loss of life, injuries, and loss of productivity.

Symptoms of Valium Withdrawal
Valium addiction can occur rapidly highly dependent on the drug and withdrawal symptoms can be severe. Valium detoxification should never be attempted without medical supervision or professional treatment.

Symptoms are similar to those of alcohol and barbiturate withdrawal

Extreme Anxiety
Tension
Depression
Suicidal Thoughts
Insomnia
Restlessness
Headache
Tremors
Muscle Cramps

In more severe cases, withdrawal symptoms can include:

Derealization
Depersonalization
Numbness and/or Tingling in the Extremities
Hypersensitivity to Light, Noise and Physical Contact
Hallucinations
Epileptic Seizures

Withdrawal symptoms should be monitored by a certified addiction physician. Detox is best when done in a detox unit within a treatment facility as it not uncommon for rebound anxiety to occur. All attending physiological and psychological responses to withdrawal can be managed under specialized medical supervision. With treatment and abstinence from Valium abuse, most of the effects can be overcome.

Slang terms for Valuim
Downers, Relaxers, Sleeping Pills, Trank, Valley Girl, Valo, Vals, Valums