Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 9/11/2009

Question
I was taking Valium 2mg TID. I found it really slowed my GI tract and left me constipated. I was using it to relax the muscles of my pelvic floor. Would I benefit from a suppository form or should I try Klonapin. I know its a similar drug. Would I expect the same side effects.

Answer
Dear Pete

This is an unusual effect of Valium and if you respond like this you are likely to do so with other drugs of the same class such as Klonapin. The use of suppositories would make no difference. I would suggest asking your prescriber for a different type of muscle relaxant such as carisoprodol or baclofen.

Regards

Alan Galbraith