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Valium vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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.

• 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

• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Muscle weakness
• Problems with balance or coordination
• Memory problems

• 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

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.

• Alcohol withdrawal
• Preoperative anxiety and anxiety disorders

• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Loss of coordination (clumsiness)

• Risks while also taking opioids
• Potential for addiction, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
• Effect on driving and concentration
• Harm to babies