Effects of Valium
Sedative-hypnotics like Valium are Central Nervous System
depressants and are a category of drugs that slow normal brain
function. There are numerous CNS depressants; most act on the
brain by affecting the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid.
Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that facilitate
communication between brain cells. GABA works by decreasing
brain activity.
Although the different classes of CNS depressants work in unique
ways, ultimately it is through their ability to increase GABA
activity that they produce a drowsy or calming effect that is
beneficial to those suffering from anxiety or sleep disorders.
Benzodiazepines, such as Valium, can be prescribed to treat
anxiety, acute stress reactions, and panic attacks. In higher
doses, it can even be used as general anesthetics.
Despite the many beneficial effects, Valium have the potential
for abuse and should be used only as prescribed. During the
first few days of taking Valium, a person usually feels sleepy
and uncoordinated, but as the body becomes accustomed to the
effects of the drug, these feelings begin to disappear. If one
uses this drug long term, the body will develop tolerance for
it, and larger doses will be needed to achieve the same initial
effects. In addition, continued use can lead to physical
dependence and - when use is reduced or stopped - withdrawal.
Because Valium work by slowing the brain's activity, when a
person stops taking them, the brain's activity can rebound and
race out of control, possibly leading to seizures and other
harmful consequences. Although withdrawal from Valium can be
problematic, it is rarely life threatening, whereas withdrawal
from prolonged use of other CNS depressants can have
life-threatening complications. Therefore, someone who is
thinking about discontinuing Valium therapy or who is suffering
withdrawal from this drug should speak with a physician or seek
medical treatment.
At high doses or when it is abused, Valium can even cause
unconsciousness and death. As a parent or individual, if you
suspect someone of using this or similar drugs you can get a
definitive answer by using a simple, private urine drug testing
kit. There are easy-to-use Benzodiazepine (Valium) urine drug
testing products that can be found online.