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Diazepam

Benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, seizures and muscle spasms.

Clinical information

Common uses

severe anxiety
seizures (fits)
muscle spasms
sedation before treatment or surgery

Common side effects

feeling less alert
feeling drowsy
tiredness
increased anxiety and depression
low blood pressure

Cautions

short-term use only (up to 4 weeks) — risk of addiction
do not stop suddenly — withdrawal symptoms
can make you sleepy — do not drive until you feel OK
may not suit kidney, liver, heart or breathing problems

Interactions

antidepressants such as fluvoxamine and fluoxetine
antipsychotics such as clozapine
antihistamines that make you sleepy
general anaesthetics
alcohol and grapefruit juice — avoid
caffeine — can reduce diazepam's effect

Pregnancy: avoid — only if a doctor advises it

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: NHS Medicines A–Z, nhs.uk/medicines/diazepam (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations13

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
DIAPO	Tablet	5mg	—	controlled
Diazepam	Rectal Solution	10 mg/tube	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Tablet	2mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Parenteral ( Injection )	5 mg/mL	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Parenteral ( Injection )	10mg/2ml	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Rectal solution	2.5mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Rectal solution	5mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Tablet	10mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Tablet	1mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam	Tablet	5mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam Oral Liquid	Oral Liquid	2mg/5ml	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Diazepam Rectal Gel	Rectal Gel	2 mg/5ml	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled
Lori	Parenteral ( Injection )	10mg/2ml	—	controlled