Diazepam precautions

List of precautions
Concomitant psychotropic or anticonvulsant treatment Depression Renal and hepatic function Elderly and/or debilitated patients Usage in pregnancy Drug clearance Information for patients

Concomitant psychotropic or anticonvulsant treatment
If Diazepam is to be combined with other psychotropic agents or anticonvulsant drugs, careful consideration should be given to the pharmacology of the agents to be employed — particularly with known compounds which may potentiate the action of Diazepam, such as phenothiazines, narcotics, barbiturates, MAO inhibitors and other antidepressants. Return to top

Depression
The usual precautions are indicated for severely depressed patients or those in whom there is any evidence of latent depression; particularly the recognition that suicidal tendencies may be present and protective measures may be necessary. Return to top

Renal and hepatic function
The usual precautions in treating patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be observed. Return to top

Elderly and/or debilitated patients
In elderly and debilitated patients, it is recommended that the dosage be limited to the smallest effective amount to preclude the development of ataxia or oversedation (2 mg to 2 ½ mg once or twice daily, initially, to be increased gradually as needed and tolerated). Return to top

Usage in pregnancy
An increased risk of congenital malformations associated with the use of minor tranquilizers (Diazepam, meprobamate and chlordiazepoxide) during the first trimester of pregnancy has been suggested in several studies. Because use of these drugs is rarely a matter of urgency, their use during this period should almost always be avoided. The possibility that a woman of childbearing potential may be pregnant at the time of institution of therapy should be considered. Patients should be advised that if they become pregnant during therapy or intend to become pregnant they should communicate with their physicians about the desirability of discontinuing the drug. Return to top

Drug clearance
The clearance of Diazepam and certain other benzodiazepines can be delayed in association with Tagamet (cimetidine) administration. The clinical significance of this is unclear. Return to top

Information for patients
To assure the safe and effective use of benzodiazepines, patients should be informed that, since benzodiazepines may produce psychological and physical dependence, it is advisable that they consult with their physician before either increasing the dose or abruptly discontinuing this drug. Return to top