How to Safely Detox From Valium

Valium (diazepam) is a minor tranquilizer that is not as prone to abuse as other tranquilizers. Minor tranquilizers do not develop tolerance through liver mechanisms as do barbiturates. Rapid eye movement (REM) also is not adversely affected by minor tranquilizers. Diazepam used for longer than 30 days, however, even when used as prescribed, can produce significant withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of Valium withdrawal include rapid pulse, sweating, anxiety, confusion, feelings of distortion ("my head is floating above my body"), nausea, twitching and numbness of fingers and toes. Because of the drug's long half-life, cravings and symptoms are delayed. Withdrawal should be gradual and flexible.

Instructions

Taper Down

• 1

  Start withdrawal on 15mg to 25mg of Valium four times a day. Use more if needed to suppress withdrawal symptoms. Once an adequate dose is reached, keep it steady for two days.

• 2

  Decrease the dose by 10 percent every day until the last 10 percent is reached. In this way, the largest drops take place initially; as the dose shrinks the increments are smaller and the drop is more gradual. A single additional dose of 5mg or 10mg can be given when necessary to treat symptoms such as nausea or twitching. If blood pressure can be monitored every eight hours, treat symptoms that accompany a rise of more than ten points.

• 3

  Reduce the final 10 percent gradually over three to four days and then discontinue. It is okay if this process takes longer. On average, detox from Valium should be completed in two to three weeks.