Diazepam
Brand: Valium (US/EU) / Calmpose (IN) / Dzpam (BD)
Anxiolytic
Benzodiazepine anxiolytic (GABA-A positive allosteric modulator)
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 48 hours |
| Tmax | 1 h |
| Bioavailability | 90 % (approx) |
| Protein Binding | 98 % |
| Volume of Distribution | 1.5 L/kg (approx) |
| Clearance Route | hepatic |
| Active Metabolites | yes |
| Notes | Very long elimination due to active metabolites (desmethyldiazepam); accumulation risk in elderly. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Severe
Adverse Effects:
Sedation, confusion, ataxia, respiratory depression, dependence
Contraindications:
Severe respiratory insufficiency, myasthenia gravis
Precautions:
Avoid chronic daily use; be cautious in elderly due to accumulation and falls; avoid alcohol and opioids.