Expert: Amarnath.B - 8/3/2008

Question
Hi, I'm in my 50's and female.  I for many years too 5 mg of valium to help me sleep. A few months ago I thought it was causing me more anxiety so I stopped taking it. Though I was on a small dose I did and still do suffer withdrawal symptoms.  They were worse at the beginning and now they're coming not as often. I especially notice I get anxious easily and have electric feelings or pins and needles throughout my body.  I also have a pounding heart at times and a higher heart rate in the 90's .  How long does it take to get my body back into well being.  Thanks for response.

Answer
Dear Marge,

Essentially, withdrawal symptoms from Valium are like the mirror of its therapeutic effects. Valium withdrawal can produce especially severe withdrawal symptoms similar to those in alcohol and barbiturate withdrawal, including jittery, shaky feelings and any of the following: rapid heartbeat, tremor, insomnia, sweating, irritability, anxiety, blurred vision, decreased concentration, decreased mental clarity, diarrhea, heightened awareness of noise or bright lights, impaired sense of smell, loss of appetite, loss of weight, muscle cramps, seizures, tingling sensation, and agitation. In more extreme cases, typically associated with sudden cessation of the drug, users may experience convulsions, tremor, abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting and sweating. After extended abuse, abrupt discontinuation should be avoided and a gradual dosage tapering schedule carefully followed.

Obviously, the severity of withdrawal symptoms is directly related to the amount of the drug taken and the length of time over which it has been taken.

You haven't mentioned how long you've been off Valium, so I cannot exactly tell how long the withdrawal symptoms will last.  I suggest you contact your doctor immediately for help.

God bless


Amarnath