Mar 09 2010
Effects of the Popular Anti-Anxiety Drug Diazepam
We are truly in the age of anxiety. Fear is an abstract, and it is hard to pin down exactly what it is. But whatever the cause, the last century has seen an explosion of people in the U.S. suffering from anxiety as our culture gradually moved away from the simple lifestyles of past and into the fast paced computerized world of today.
There are plenty of us who will go through periods of fear and some anxiousness at different times in our lives. But, those with anxiety disorders are impacted by fear to such a level that they can’t function or live a normal live without the aid of drugs. One of the most effective and prevalent drugs for anxiety disorder is diazepam.
More than 1 out of every 10 Americans are currently on some kind of anti-anxiety drug. Of these drugs, the most popular one is Xanax but diazepam is not very far behind.
The drug Diazepam is unfamiliar to many. That’s because most know it as Valium. It is an anti-anxiety or anti-panic medication. It works mainly by bringing about the release of the amino acid GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) into the brain. GABA acts to suppress the nerve impulses leading to a feeling of relaxation.
Even though Diazepam can be a very effective and favorable drug in the treatment for anxiety and depression - as well as insomnia, cramps, and seizures - anyone considering it for anxiety should be cognizant of its negatives as well.
Diazepam is habit forming and very addictive. Self medicating yourself with diazepam is a bad idea. because you can easily develop a dependency on it, especially if you take it in large doses over an extended period of time. Diazepam should only be taken under a doctor’s care and never take more than the prescribed dosage. Because of its addictive properties, you may suffer withdrawal symptoms when your doctor eventually weans you off of the drug.
Please see more of Karen’s articles on what is anxiety disorder. panic and anxiety disorder, as well as other anxiety related topics.
