What it is used for

Short-term treatment of severe anxiety
Muscle spasms, including spasticity in conditions such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy
Alcohol withdrawal
Stopping a prolonged seizure (rectal tubes)
Before surgery or some medical procedures
Short-term help with severe sleep problems

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Helping people reduce other benzodiazepines slowly

How it works

Diazepam boosts the effect of a calming chemical messenger in the brain called GABA. This reduces anxiety, relaxes muscles and stops seizures.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Diazepam can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sleepy
tired or unsteady
muscle weakness
poor memory or concentration
headache

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

slow or shallow breathing, or being very hard to wake. Call 999
feeling agitated, aggressive, or seeing things that are not there
thoughts of harming yourself

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It is usually only prescribed for 2 to 4 weeks because of the risk of dependence.
Never take it with alcohol or opioids, as this can stop your breathing.
Do not drive if you feel sleepy. It is illegal to drive with certain levels in your blood unless you take it as prescribed and your driving is not impaired.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.