How to Safely Detox From Valium
Valium (diazepam) is a minor tranquilizer that is not as prone to abuse as other tranquilizers. Minor tranquilizers do not develop tolerance through liver mechanisms as do barbiturates. Rapid eye movement (REM) also is not adversely affected by minor tranquilizers. Diazepam used for longer than 30 days, however, even when used as prescribed, can produce significant withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of Valium withdrawal include rapid pulse, sweating, anxiety, confusion, feelings of distortion ("my head is floating above my body"), nausea, twitching and numbness of fingers and toes. Because of the drug's long half-life, cravings and symptoms are delayed. Withdrawal should be gradual and flexible.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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Taper Down
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1
Start withdrawal on 15mg to 25mg of Valium four times a day. Use more if needed to suppress withdrawal symptoms. Once an adequate dose is reached, keep it steady for two days.
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2
Decrease the dose by 10 percent every day until the last 10 percent is reached. In this way, the largest drops take place initially; as the dose shrinks the increments are smaller and the drop is more gradual. A single additional dose of 5mg or 10mg can be given when necessary to treat symptoms such as nausea or twitching. If blood pressure can be monitored every eight hours, treat symptoms that accompany a rise of more than ten points.
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3
Reduce the final 10 percent gradually over three to four days and then discontinue. It is okay if this process takes longer. On average, detox from Valium should be completed in two to three weeks.
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1
Tips & Warnings
•Valium doses may also be decreased by 3 to 5 percent every three days, or by 10 percent per week. Another do-it-yourself method is to stretch the time between doses until detox symptoms such as increased perspiration and rapid pulse begin to appear. If each dose is taken only when needed, and they are administered further and further apart, less Valium will be consumed over time. This is a good way to cut down prior to entering inpatient treatment.
•A dark, quiet environment is essential when detox symptoms are intense; bright lights and loud noises are intolerable. Social support from therapists or 12-step self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous during and after detox increases the chances of remaining drug free.
•Abrupt withdrawal of benzodiazepine drugs such as Valium can cause convulsions and death. If inadequate supplies are on hand or symptoms become intense, go immediately to the nearest emergency room or activate EMS.
