What it means
A benzodiazepineben-zoh-dy-AZ-uh-peenA group of calming drugs that slow brain activity, used for anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal and sedation.Full entry that calms the brain by increasing the effect of GABA, a calming signal. It is given by mouth, IV, as a rectal gel (Diastat) or as a nasal spray or a film placed on the cheek for seizure clusters. It lasts a long time in the body, especially in older adults. It causes drowsiness and unsteadiness and can slow breathing, most of all with opioids or alcohol. Its name looks like diltiazemdil-TY-uh-zemA calcium channel blocker that slows the heart rate and relaxes blood vessels, given by mouth or IV.Full entry , a heart drug.
For the nurse
Check respiratory rate, blood pressure and level of sedation, and keep flumazenil and airway equipment ready when it is given by IV. Teach the client to avoid alcohol and driving, not to stop it suddenly after long use, and to rise slowly. Older adults are at high risk of falls and confusion.
At a glance
| Drug class | benzodiazepine (antianxiety agent, anticonvulsant, skeletal muscle relaxant) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Valium, Diastat, Valtoco, Libervant |
| Spanish | diazepam |
| Also written | Valium, Diastat, Valtoco, Libervant |
Easy to confuse with
diltiazem
A calcium channel blocker that slows the heart rate and relaxes blood vessels, given by mouth or IV.
Related terms
seizure
A sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that changes movement, feeling, behavior or awareness.
benzodiazepine
A group of calming drugs that slow brain activity, used for anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal and sedation.
flumazenil
An IV drug that blocks benzodiazepines and reverses the sedation they cause.