Valium | Valium Addiction | Valium Overdose

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Valium | Valium Addiction | Valium Overdose & Physical Effects

Valium (generic name: Diazepam) is a drug of the Benzodiazepine sedative class. Valium acts on the limbic, thalmic and hypothalmic regions of the central nervous system to potentiate the effects of inhibitory neurotransmitters. There is no actual difference between Valium and Diazepam. Diazepam is the generic form of Valium which is the name brand manufactured by Roche. Valium is mainly available in tablets; the 2mg tablet is white, the 5mg tablet is yellow, and the 10mg tablet is blue. Valium is usually taken orally in tablet form, but is also manufactured for intravenous injection.

Valium addiction

Valium is considered addictive. The user builds a tolerance and feels the need to increase the amount they take to achieve the same "high". Over a period of time Valium becomes physically and psychologically addictive.

Valium abuse

The effects of Valium are felt within thirty minutes after taking it orally and within five minutes after injection. The habit-forming potential is high. It is possible to become dependent in only two weeks, and the drug should not be taken for more than four weeks.

Signs of Valium addiction and abuse

Common signs and side effects of Valium use

Common side effects of Valium are:

• clumsiness
• sleepiness

In addition some users experience:

• abdominal cramps
• blurred vision
• dry mouth
• racing heartbeat / palpitations
• shaking / slurred speech
• urination problems
• convulsions
• hallucinations
• memory loss
• trouble breathing
• staggering / trembling
• headache or confusion

Common symptoms of Valium withdrawal and overdose

The withdrawal symptoms of Valium are similar to those of alcohol and other barbiturates which include:

• convulsions and tremors
• abdominal and muscle cramps
• vomiting and sweating

Consequently, after extended abuse, abrupt discontinuation should generally be avoided and a gradual dosage tapering schedule followed. The symptoms of a Valium overdose include:

• coma
• confusion
• diminished reflexes
• sleepiness

Valium addiction treatment programs

Valium is a highly addictive prescription drug. Recovery and rehabilitation from Valium addiction may require a treatment program ranging from certified addiction counselling to treatment at a residential alcohol and drug rehab centre, depending on the extent of the addiction and a number of other factors.