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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

DIAZEPAM - INJECTION

(dye-AZZ-eh-pam)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Valium

USES: Diazepam is used to treat anxiety and muscle spasms. The injection form is used when the medication cannot be taken by mouth. It is also used in patients with alcohol withdrawal to prevent seizures and treat other symptoms (e.g., agitation, anxiety, hallucinations).

This medication is also used for short-term treatment of serious seizures that do not stop (status epilepticus). It is not for ongoing daily use to prevent seizures.

It is also used before surgeries or procedures to cause drowsiness, decrease anxiety, and cause forgetfulness about the procedure or surgery.

This medication belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. It works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA) that causes calm.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein or deep into a muscle by a health care professional. Giving the medication too fast can cause heart problems. If giving this medication into a vein, inject it slowly into a large vein because the medication is very irritating to the vein. Do not inject this medication into an artery or into the skin.

This medication may be available in a vial, ampule, pre-filled syringe, or pre-filled syringe with autoinjector. The autoinjector automatically delivers a dose of 10 milligrams deep into the muscle. It cannot be used when a lower dose is needed. Do not use the autoinjector for injecting into a vein.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. You will be closely monitored for several hours after receiving this medication. If your doctor orders you to continue to receive this medication, you should be switched to a form that can be taken by mouth as soon as possible.

This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as shakiness, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, seizures, mental/mood changes such as anxiety/agitation) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.

Rarely, abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction) is possible with this medication. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.

When used for an extended time, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.