Valium

Section 8 - MEDICATION GUIDELINES

SEDATIVE / HYPNOTICS / ANTIPSYCHOTIC

Diazepam (VALIUM) / Sedative Hypnotic

DESCRIPTION

• It is a skeletal muscle relaxant that reduces tremors, induces amnesia, and reduces the incidence and recurrence of seizures.

INDICATIONS

• Seizures, Status Epilepticus, premedication prior to cardioversion, acute anxiety states, acute alcohol withdrawal.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Hypersensitivity to the medication.

PRECAUTIONS

• Due to a short half-life of the drug, seizure activity may recur.

DOSAGE

• 2 - 20 mg Slow IVP for adults titrated to effect. If no IV access, administer 10 - 20 mg IM up to a total of 2 ml per large muscle injection site or 1 ml per small muscle injection site. Refer to PRACTICE PARAMETER for specific dosages.
• Refer to Handtevy System for pediatric dosage.