Diazepam (Valium)

Tranquilizer (benzodiazepine)

Diazepam is benzo that is frequently used as a sedative, hypnotic, and anticonvulsant

Benzo that binds to specific sites on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptors within the brain. GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system. Increased GABA levels cause sedation.

• Onset: IV 1-5min / IM 15-30min
• Peak: IV 10min / IM 30-45min
• Duration: 15-60min
• Half Life: 20-50 hours

Major motor seizures, Status epilepticus, Premedication before cardioversion, skeletal muscle relaxant, and Acute anxiety relaxant

Pt’s with hx of hypersensitivity to the drug, Hypotension

Can cause local venous irritation, has short duration of effect, Do not mix with other drugs because they are incompatible with other medications

amnesia, apnea,blurred vision, drowsiness, hallucinations, tachycardia, headache, hypotension, nausea, respiratory depression, vomiting

• Adult: Status epilepticus 5-10 mg (IV), Acute anxiety 2-5mg (IM) or (IV),Premedication before cardioversion 5-15 mg
• Pedi: Status epilepticus 0.1-0.2mg/kg

PRN

IV (take care not to administer faster than 1ml/min) IM

Vials