Alternative names 
Diazepam overdose; Alupram; Atensine; Valium; Valrelease; Vatran; Vivol; Zeltran

Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of diazepam.

Poisonous Ingredient

 
• diazepam

Where Found

 
• Valium  
• Valrelease

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

 
• body as a whole       o weakness       o tremor       o incoordination       o hiccups  
• respiratory       o labored breathing  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat       o double vision       o blurred vision       o ringing in the ears       o rapid side-to-side movement of the eyes  
• skin       o rash       o bluish colored lips and fingernails  
• gastrointestinal       o stomach upset  
• nervous system       o drowsiness       o depression       o tiredness       o weariness       o stupor       o coma       o dizziness       o hallucinations       o excitability

Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:

 
• the patient’s age, weight, and condition  
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)  
• the time it was swallowed  
• the amount swallowed  
• if the medication was prescribed for the patient

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

 
• Induce emesis.  
• Administer activated charcoal.  
• Use gastric lavage.  
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis)
With proper care, recovery normally occurs (except possibly in patients with aplastic anemia).

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.