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Article: Diazepam
- Article from:
- Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 The Gale Group Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Diazepam
Definition
Diazepam is a mild tranquilizer in the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is most commonly sold in the United States under the brand name Valium. The generic form of this drug is also available.
Purpose
Diazepam is used on a short-term basis to treat patients with mild to moderate anxiety. It is also used to treat some types of
seizures
(epilepsy), muscle spasms, nervous tension, and symptoms relating to alcohol withdrawal.
Description
Diazepam is one of many chemically-related tranquilizers in the class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are sedative-hypnotic drugs that help to relieve nervousness, tension, and other anxiety symptoms ...