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Compare Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Diazepam (Valium) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) are both benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Diazepam is available as a tablet and liquid solution, while chlordiazepoxide comes as a capsule. Diazepam works by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps control anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. On the other hand, researchers aren't exactly sure how chlordiazepoxide works, but it's thought to slow down brain activity to manage anxiety and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Diazepam typically starts working within 15 to 30 minutes, whereas chlordiazepoxide can take up to 4 hours to reach maximum levels in your blood. Both medications carry a risk of addiction and dependence, and they should be used for the shortest time possible. Both medications are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Common side effects for both include drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.

  • Diazepam (Valium)
    Chlordiazepoxide
  • Diazepam (Valium)
    Chlordiazepoxide

  • Summary of Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine. It's used to treat symptoms of anxiety and alcohol withdrawal. It can also treat certain types of muscle spasms and seizures. Diazepam (Valium) comes as a tablet and liquid solution. It's taken by mouth, typically 2 to 4 times daily. Some common side effects of diazepam (Valium) include sleepiness, dizziness, and weakness. Additionally, this medication carries a risk for misuse and dependence, so it's classified as a controlled substance.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Chlordiazepoxide is used for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It can also prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms, like seizures. This medication has a risk of addiction, so it's classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Your dose will depend on the reason why you're using it, your age, and your other health conditions. Some possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide include drowsiness, trouble with balance and movement, and confusion. Chlordiazepoxide comes as a capsule, and is available as a brand name and a lower-cost generic.

  • Indications of Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Indications for
    •Anxiety disorders and short-term anxiety symptoms
    •Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
    •Muscle spasms or spasticity from certain conditions, such as cerebral palsy and stiff-person syndrome (SPS)
    •Add-on to other medications for seizures
    Indications for
    •Alcohol withdrawal
    •Preoperative anxiety and anxiety disorders

  • Pros and Cons of Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Available as tablets and liquid
    •Works within 30 minutes
    Cons
    •Might need to take multiple times a day
    •Short-term use only because risk for dependence
    •Generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •A first-choice treatment option for alcohol withdrawal
    •Can be used in children age 6 and older
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    Cons
    •Controlled medication due to the risk of addiction, misuse, and dependence
    •Risk of more side effects in older adults
    •Can cause withdrawal if suddenly stopped
    •Should only be used short-term

  • Common Side Effects of Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Muscle weakness
    •Problems with balance or coordination
    •Memory problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Confusion
    •Loss of coordination (clumsiness)

  • Warnings of Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Extreme sleepiness and difficulty breathing
    •Misuse and dependence
    •Withdrawal
    •Harm to babies during pregnancy and after delivery
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Use with caution in people with depression
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risks while also taking opioids
    •Potential for addiction, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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    Learn more about Chlordiazepoxide

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