Diazepam (better known as Valium) was developed as an
antianxiety drug for people under stress. And it's still an
effective drug if used properly. Chronic use, however, can carry
serious risks, including addiction. People who stop taking Valium
after more than three to four weeks can experience the following
withdrawal symptoms.
 Increased,
uncontrollable anxiety
Jitteriness,
nervousness, and tremors
Distorted senses
of taste and smell
Difficulty
sleeping
In short, the drug could leave you worse off than you were
before you started taking it. At that point, the best way to
withdraw from the drug is to wean yourself away gradually, under
a doctor's supervision. He or she will reduce your dosage over a
period of several weeks.
For people who suffer disabling anxiety, Valium can be a
useful short-term aid. To avoid dependence, though, keep in mind
that:
Only the smallest
dose necessary should be taken.
Valium shouldn't
be used for more than three or four weeks.
Once the
anxiety-producing circumstances are under control, Valium should
be discontinued.
If you're taking
Valium for ongoing anxiety, take "drug holidays" away
from the drug for two-day
 intervals every three
or four weeks.
Note: Don't mix Valium--or other similar anti-anxiety
drugs--and alcohol. And don't take Valium if you're pregnant or
think you might be pregnant; it can damage a growing fetus.
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