Drug
Diazepam
Pronounced
"dye-AZ-e-pam"
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Drowsiness or headache may occur. If either of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell the doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because the doctor has judged that the benefit to your child is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell the doctor right away if your child has any serious side effects, including: uncontrolled movements (such as shaking/tremor).
Get medical help right away if your child has any very serious side effects, including: slow/shallow breathing, unusual drowsiness/difficulty waking up.
A small number of people who take anticonvulsants for any condition (such as seizure, bipolar disorder, pain) may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Tell the doctor right away if there are any unusual/sudden changes in your child's mood, thoughts, or behavior such as signs of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming themselves.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact the doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call the doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call the doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before giving diazepam, tell the doctor or pharmacist if your child is allergic to it; or to other benzodiazepines (such as lorazepam); or if they have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to the pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell the doctor or pharmacist your child's medical history, especially of: glaucoma, breathing problems (such as chronic obstructive lung disease-COPD, asthma), mental/mood disorders (such as depression, thoughts of suicide, psychosis).
This drug may make your child feel dizzy or drowsy. Do not let them ride a bicycle, drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until your child can do it safely.
Before having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist about all the products your child uses (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This medication is not usually used by adults. It is unlikely to be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult the doctor if you have any questions about this medication.
Medical Alert
Your child's condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).