The Effects of Valium on Organs

Valium (diazepam) is a benzodiazepine medication used for treating anxiety disorders, insomnia and withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol dependence.

Therapeutic Effects

• Diazepam increases the level of a chemical in the brain, a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Increased GABA levels provide sedative effects that can help induce sleep and decrease anxiety.

Contraindications

• Diazepam is contraindicated with patients suffering from severe liver disease, narrow-angle glaucoma, poor kidney functioning and poor lung functioning, since it may result in further decreased liver functioning, renal failure, worsen glaucoma, and lead to hypoventilation or respiratory failure.

Pregnancy

• Diazepam may impair development of organs in a fetus, leading to birth defects or in rare cases, fetal death.

Side Effects

• Diazepam can alter the functioning of many organs, including the brain, eyes, lungs, heart and kidneys. Side effects that may occur as a result of this include confusion, memory loss, double vision, hypoventilation and difficulty with urination.

Overdose

• Overdose of diazepam can have a significant impact on the functioning of many organs, including the brain, heart and lungs. Coma may result from an excessive overdose.