What is the most important information I should know about diazepam?Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Diazepam will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Avoid alcohol while taking diazepam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by diazepam. Alcohol may also increase the risk of having a seizure if diazepam is being taken for a seizure condition.

Diazepam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if diazepam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

What is diazepam?

Diazepam is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Diazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety, seizures, and muscle spasms. Diazepam is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. It is also used to treat certain types of seizure disorders and muscle spasms. Diazepam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How should I take diazepam?

Take diazepam exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each oral dose with a full glass of water.

To ensure the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of diazepam with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Your doctor or nurse will give you detailed instructions for administration of the Diastat rectal gel. In general, application of the rectal gel is as follows:

· Remove the protective cover from the medication syringe and lubricate the rectal tip with lubricating jelly.
· Turn the person on their side facing you. Bend the upper leg forward and separate the buttocks to expose the rectum.
· Gently insert the syringe tip into the rectum. The rim should be snug against the rectal opening. Slowly count out loud to three while gently pushing the plunger in until it stops. Slowly count to three before removing the syringe. Slowly count to three and hold the buttocks together to prevent leakage.
· Keep the person on their side facing you, note the time the medication was given, and observe the person for signs of seizure, skin color, breathing, or any unusual reaction.

Do not take diazepam more often or in larger doses than is prescribed. Diazepam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if diazepam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose. Store diazepam at room temperature away from moisture and heat.