Is There a Connection between Diazepam and Depression?

There is a connection between diazepam and depression, as for many people, diazepam may cause depression or worsen preexisting depression. It is wise to inform health care providers about existing or previous depression prior to treatment with diazepam. Diazepam and medications for depression are typically not harmful when combined. In fact, individuals who are depressed should only take diazepam if they are also on an antidepressant.

Diazepam affects brain chemistry to help relieve anxiety, and can also be used to treat they symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and muscle spasms. This drug, which is in the benzodiazepine class, can also be used to treat seizures when combined with other medicines. Diazepam is a controlled substance, however, as it has the potential to be abused.

The sedative effects of diazepam can increase when taken with other medications that cause sedation or with alcohol. Both diazepam and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, which means that both can slow down brain activity. Experts do not recommend drinking alcohol while taking both diazepam and depression medications, as the alcohol can exacerbate the connection between diazepam and depression. The risk of side effects, including memory problems, drowsiness and poor coordination, increases when alcohol is combined with diazepam.

Dangerous effects involving diazepam and depression of the respiratory system can occur. During respiratory depression, also known as hypoventilation, breathing can cease completely. The airflow is inadequate and fails to accomplish the necessary gas exchange. This is most likely to happen to people who receive repeated intravenous injections of diazepam to control their seizures.

Dosages for diazepam are based upon medical condition and response to therapy. Individuals taking the liquid form of diazepam should use a measuring device, instead of a household spoon, to measure a prescribed dose. Since diazepam is habit-forming for many people, experts do not recommend taking this drug more frequently than prescribed or using it for a long period of time. Likewise, when diazepam is taken for seizure control or for weeks at a time, a physician must approve the decision to suddenly discontinue use.

Elderly people are highly sensitive to the effects associated with diazepam. Diazepam also increases the risk of falling, which is particularly dangerous for the elderly people. Experts recommend that the dosage be limited to the smallest effective amount to prevent over sedation and the development of ataxia. In the elderly, even low doses of diazepam can cause central nervous system depression.