Diazepam

dr.joan

Diazepam :
Trade name: Valium, assival.
Class:anti –convulsant, sedativeanxiolytic agent, benzodiazepine
Pregnancy: (Category D)

Action:

• The anxiolytic effect is believed to be mediated through the action of benzodiazepine to increase the inhibitory action of GABA “Gamma amino butyric acid” inhibit CNS neurotransmitter.
• The drug is metabolized in the liver & excreted through urine.

Uses:

• Symptomatic relief of anxiety & tension.
• Alcohol withdrawal.
• Muscle relaxant.
• Anticonvulsive.
• Preoperatively.
• Before gastrescopy or esophagoscopy.
• Treatment of status epilepticus.
• Relief of facial muscle spasm.

Dose
By intravenous injection, 10–20 mg at a rate of 0.5 mL (2.5 mg) per 30 seconds, repeated if necessary after 30–60 minutes; may be followed by intravenous infusion to max. 3 mg/kg over 24 hours;
Child 0.2-0.3 mg/kg or 1 mg per year of age
by rectum as rectal solution, Adult and Child over 10 kg 0.5 mg/kg; Elderly 0.25mg/kg
Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity.
• Acute narrow angle glaucoma.
• Pregnancy.
• Shock, coma.
• Alcoholic intoxication (to avoid respiratory of depression).

Side effects:
· Drowsiness, fatigue,
· ataxia,
· hypotension,
· visual disturbances, headache,
· Phlebitis at injection site.

Nursing considerations:
· Stress that drug may reduce pt’s ability to handle dangerous equipment.
· Avoid alcohol ingestion.
· Don’t stop taking the medication suddenly, withdraw drug gradually.
· Monitor B.P. before & after administration.