Diazepam (Valium)

Classification: Benzodiazepine

 

Dosage / Administration:

Route

Onset of Action

Peak Effect

Duration of Action

IV

1-5 minutes

3-5 minutes

2-4 hours

Oral

15-60 minutes

60 minutes

3-6 hours

 

Adult Dose:

Administer in 1-2mg increments every 2 minutes IV until desired effect is achieved. (Slurred speech). Generally 10 to 20 mg in 60 minutes.

 

Pediatric Dose:

0.1 – 0.3 mg/kg.

 

Adverse Reactions:

  • Respiratory effects – Respiratory depression, apnea
  • Cardiovascular effects – Bradycardia, hypotension
  • CNS effects – Agitation, confusion, diplopia
  • GI effects – hiccups
  • Special Considerations – Phlebitis at site of injection, rash, urticaria, avoid extravasation as drug is caustic to tissue.
  • May be diluted with normal saline only. Do not mix with any other drug.
  • Midazolam is generally preferable to Diazepam due to Midazolam’s decreased duration and easier titratability.

 

Reversal agent:

Flumazenil (Romazicon) will reverse the respiratory effects of diazepam overdose.

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