diazepam

Taking diazepam (Valium) with opioid medications can cause severe drowsiness, trouble breathing, and can even result in death. Some people with long-term pain might be already taking opioids when their healthcare professional (HCP) prescribes diazepam (Valium). If this applies to you, have a discussion with your HCP to see if there are safer options for your condition. In the case there aren't safer alternatives, your prescriber will most likely ask you to take the lowest effective doses of both medications for the shortest period of time to minimize your risk of extreme sleepiness and breathing problems. If you develop difficulty breathing or have trouble waking up easily, get medical help right away.

It's possible to misuse medications like diazepam (Valium). This means taking the medication differently than how it's prescribed by your HCP. Misusing a medication, especially if you're taking it with alcohol or other medications, can lead to serious side effects such as dangerous breathing problems, overdose, and even death. Take diazepam (Valium) exactly as prescribed by your HCP and don't start any new medications without first checking with them to see if it's safe.

If you've been taking diazepam (Valium) for a long period of time or at higher doses, suddenly stopping this medication can lead to withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawals include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and shaking. In very serious cases, it can also include seizures, which can be life-threatening.

Let your HCP know if you're pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding. The CDC found that babies born to mothers who took diazepam (Valium) or other benzodiazepines during pregnancy are at a slightly higher risk of developing birth defects. But they're also in danger of having a benzodiazepine withdrawal at or within the first month of birth. There is a North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry to monitor the safety of anti-seizure medications during pregnancy. If you're currently pregnant and taking diazepam (Valium), it's encouraged that you enroll in the registry to help researchers learn more about the risks.

Diazepam (Valium) can interact with other medications. For example, certain medications can cause diazepam (Valium) to reach dangerously high levels in the body, which raises your risk for serious side effects. These include some antifungal medications and some mental health medications, like fluvoxamine (Luvox). Talk to your care team about all the medications you're taking or plan to take, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. They might need to make adjustments to the dose of certain medications or recommend safer alternatives.