Valium Dosage
Each patient is given a different Valium dosage depending on a number of factors such as the age, medical condition being treated, severity of the condition, and other underlying medical conditions. Dosage is individualized for maximum benefit for the user. Be sure to read your healthcare provider’s orders or the prescription label.
The following medication guide provides only the average dose. It is possible for you to be given a totally different dosage. Do not adjust the dose or stop taking the medication unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.
Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
The recommended initial dose of Valium (diazepam) for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal is 10 mg, taken three to four times within the first 24 hours. After the first 24 hours, the dose may be lowered down to 5 mg, taken three to four times a day, as needed.
Usually, Valium is not given as a long-term treatment for alcohol withdrawal; instead it is only used to manage the initial symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
Treatment of Anxiety
The recommended dose of Valium is 2 to 10 mg, taken three to four times a day.
Treatment of Muscle Spasms
The recommended dose of Valium is 2 to 10 mg, taken three to four times a day.
Management of Seizures
The recommended dose of Valium is 2 to 10 mg, taken two to four times a day. Valium is used as an adjunctive medication together with other seizure medications.
Dosage for Older Adults
Since older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Valium, a lower initial dose is usually recommended. Regardless of the use of Valium, the recommended initial dose of Valium is 2 to 2.5 mg, taken once or twice daily. The dose may be adjusted accordingly, depending on the patient’s response to treatment. The healthcare provider may slowly increase the daily dose until the desired pharmacologic effect is achieved.
Dosage for Children
Usually, the recommended dose of Valium for children older than six months ranges from 1 to 2.5 mg, taken three to four times a day. The dose may be increased gradually depending on the child’s response to treatment. The healthcare provider may recommend close monitoring when using this medication in younger children.
Valium dosage for its injectable forms may vary depending on the severity of condition being treated. The healthcare provider evaluates the patient’s condition first before giving recommendations.
