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RSD Alert is a voluntary organisation publishing RSD/CRPS information, mostly provided by our readers. Every approved medical drug works for some people but not for others. Don't be alarmed by what you read. If in doubt consult your medical advisor.
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Drugs

Drugs on RSD Alert

(notes and comments from correspondents)

Diazepam
Description
 An anxiolytic drug used to treat short or long term anxiety or insomnia. It may also be administered to provide sedation for minor surgery or as a premed for larger operations. Sometimes used to relieve symptoms in severe cases of asthma. Also known as Benzodiazepine and under the proprietary name Valium.
Side effects

(Don't be unduly alarmed. All drugs cause side effects for some patients)

 Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention, hyper-sensitivity, shallow breathing. May affect concentration and speed of thought or movement.
Warnings

(These are standard cautions but may not be applicable to your case)

 Can result in dependence if used for a long period. Enhances the effect of alcohol. To be used with caution for patients who have kidney or liver damage, glaucoma, or respiratory difficulties. Care advised if the patient is in the final stages of pregnancy or is elderly.

Comments

While I was in hospital, I took Ultram with Co-drydamol, Diazepam and Amantadine. I felt drowsy but had hardly any relief from the pain. Vicki - Walsall, England

I used it for a whole year for muscle spasms (no it is not a medicine for relief of pain), and find it better than Zanaflex, which causes rebound spasms about 2 hrs. after you take it (when it begins to wear off). A relatively small dose (compared to the Psychiatric dose) 2-4 mg. worked for me, although bigger spasms may require more medicine. I find that while I need Klonopin for daily spasticity (valium tolerance develops easily), it is still the best thing for "break through" spasms. I also find it less sedating than Zanaflex. Amanda - Phildelphia, USA

I have been prescribed Diazepam because twelve months ago my depression worsened, and now I take lithium alongside Lofepramine, and Frusemide because of water retention. I also have to take Zimovane as I can no longer sleep. I was told by my GP to increase Lofepramine but I felt dreadful and sweated profusely. Now I haven't a clue which tablet is causing me to feel so unwell. I am a qualified nurse who cannot practice because of my ill health, so please has any one any help for me as the hospital have given me no encouragement, and I have slowly lost faith in the doctors. Sian Goodman - UK
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