How Long Does Diazepam Take To Work?
Diazepam, also known as Valium, is a very effective medication that can be used to treat anxiety disorders, muscle spasms and insomnia. In this article, we will explore how long it takes for Diazepam to work. We will explore whether the form of medication you are using affects how long it takes to work, as well as the half-life. We will also provide all the information you need to know so that you can purchase the Diazepam that you need from EU Meds.
What is Diazepam?
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that is used to help treat a wide variety of different conditions. It can be used to treat anxiety disorders, acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms, seizures, and sleeping disorders such as insomnia. Diazepam works by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This neurotransmitter inhibits activity in the brain, producing an overall calming effect.
Are the effects of Diazepam immediate?
The effects of Diazepam are not generally considered to be immediate. The amount of time it takes to work will usually depend on the form in which the medication is administered. It's important to note, however, that individual response to Diazepam can vary based on numerous factors including age, overall health, the presence of other medications in the system, and individual metabolism rates.
Will the form of Diazepam that you take affect how long it takes to work?
Yes, the form of Diazepam you take can significantly affect how long it takes to work. Diazepam is available in several different forms, including oral tablets, intravenous, and rectal gel, and the onset of action varies with each form. It should be noted that the general timeline and individual responses may vary from person to person and will depend on more factors than just the form the medication is in.
How long do Diazepam oral tablets take to work?
Diazepam oral tablets generally start to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes after you have taken them. This is because the tablet has to be ingested and absorbed into your bloodstream through your digestive system. However, it's important to remember that the amount of time it takes for the medication to work can vary based on a number of factors including your age, rate of metabolism, and whether you've taken the tablet on an empty or full stomach. Diazepam can be taken either on an empty stomach or with food. If the medication upsets your stomach, taking it with food or milk might help mitigate this issue.
How long does intravenous Diazepam take to work?
When administered intravenously (which is when the medication is injected directly into a vein), Diazepam usually begins to work within 1 to 5 minutes. This is because the medication can enter the bloodstream directly, rather than having to be absorbed through the digestive system as it does when taken orally. The peak effects are typically reached within 15 minutes after intravenous administration. Diazepam must never be self-administered intravenously and should always be administered by a healthcare professional.
How long does Diazepam rectal gel take to work?
Diazepam rectal gel, often used for acute control of seizure activity, typically starts working within 10 to 45 minutes after administration. The medication is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the rectal tissue, bypassing the process of digestion which is required for oral forms of the medication. It's crucial to follow the instructions of a healthcare professional when using Diazepam rectal gel.
Diazepam Form Comparison
Here is a handy table that compares the different forms of Diazepam that you may use.
What is the half-life of Diazepam?
The half-life of a drug refers to the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in the body to be reduced by half. Diazepam is known for having a particularly long half-life compared to many other medications. The half-life of Diazepam can vary greatly among individuals, but it is typically around 20 to 48 hours. This means that it can take approximately 1 to 2 days for just half of the medication to be eliminated from the body.
What are the side effects of Diazepam?
As with all other medications, some users may experience side effects. The most common side effects, according to the NHS, include:
Feeling sleepy or drowsy
Feeling confused
Problems with coordination or controlling your movements
Having shaky hands
Some of the more serious side effects, which are rare. If you notice any of the following side effects you should get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible. According to the NHS, the more serious side effects include:
Your skin turns yellow or the whites of your eyes turn yellow
Hallucinations
Delusions
You keep falling over
You have unusual mood changes - this is more common in children or people over the age of 65 years old
Amnesia
Do Diazepam and Valium take the same amount of time to work?
Yes, Diazepam and Valium should take approximately the same amount of time to work because they are the same medication. Valium is a brand name for the generic drug Diazepam. Both contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way.
Is Diazepam available online at EU Meds?
Yes, you can purchase Diazepam (Valium) online from EU Meds. You can also browse our range of sleeping and anxiety medications which include Zolpidem (Zolpidem Tartrate) and Xanax (Alprazolam).
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
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