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Valium Drug Interactions

by on July 3, 2012

Valium (diazepam) can potentially interact with a number of drugs and medications. Usually, drugs that act on the central nervous system can lead to drug interactions when combined with Valium. Patients are advised to discuss with their healthcare provider all drugs that they currently take, including prescription and nonprescription medications.

Significant Drug Interactions               

Here are some medications that can cause significant drug interaction when combined with Valium:

Centrally Acting Agents: Valium is a potent antidepressant drug that works on the central nervous system (CNS). WCombining Valium with centrally acting agents can possibly increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, memory loss, confusion, or breathing problems. It can also lead into serious complications. Therefore, caution should be taken when using Valium along with CNS active drugs. Some of the compounds that can enhance or be enhanced by the action of diazepam include:

  • Phenothiazines
  • Antipsychotics
  • Anxiolytics/sedatives
  • Sleep medications
  • Narcotic analgesics
  • Anesthetics
  • Sedative antihistamines
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Narcotics
  • Barbiturates
  • MAO inhibitors
  • Other antidepressants

Antigout medications: Probenecid can increase the level of Valium in the blood, possible increasing the risk of side effects. Dose adjustments may be necessary when taking Valium with this medication.

  • Probenecid (Benemid)

Medications that Inhibit Certain Hepatic Enzymes: Medications that inhibit cytochrome P450 3A and 2C19 (both are hepatic enzymes) can potentially affect the way diazepam works. Studies suggest that taking diazepam with this compounds can lead to increased and prolonged sedation.

  • Antacids particularly Cimetidine (Tagamet)
  • Antifungal medications particularly Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
  • Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Omeprazole (Prilosec)

Anticonvulsant Medications: Combining diazepam with phenytoin can lead to decreased elimination of phenytoin. This can potentially lead to high levels of phenytoin and possibly increased side effects.

  • Phenytoin (Dilantin)

This medication guide does not contain all drugs that can potentially react with Valium. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider about any specific drug interactions that may apply to you. Do not start new medications unless approved by your healthcare provider.

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