Valium

Diazepam (marketed under the tradename Valium) is a derivative of the benzodiazepine class of minor tranquilizers and possesses the five therapeutic benzodiazepine properties; working as an anxiolytic, sedative/hypnotic, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, and amnestic agent.

Pharmocology

Diazepam is a central nervous system depressant. It accomplishes this by augmenting the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-amino-butyric-acid (GABA) by binding to its endogenous ionotropic receptor (The GABAa receptor) at a location distinct from GABA itself. This ultimately results in the hyperpolarization of the neuron, lowering the threshold of stimulation, and making it more difficult for the cell to produce excitatory action potentials.

Uses

• Anxiolytic: Diazepam is one of the oldest benzodiazepines and has/is often prescribed by a medical doctor (usually a psychiatrist) for the maintenance of diurnal anxiety caused by day to day stressful situations that produce ephemeral agitation, or for people suffering from socially detrimental anxiety attacks in panic disorder.
• Amnestic:It is also useful for ameliorating the anxiety in individuals before undergoing unpleasant medical procedures such as endoscopies, colonoscopies, and dental work. Benzodiazepines are efficient amnestics and are therefore desirable in this context as well.
• Sedative or hypnotic: Diazepam has been shown to be an effective treatment for short-term insomnia, associated with or without anxiety. However, prolonged treatment for insomnia may become less efficacious as the patient develops tolerance to the drug.
• Anticonvulsant:Diazepam, along with lorazepam, are usually first choice drugs for the cessation of seizures in patients suffering from epilepsy.