It increases the levels of a chemical in your brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This helps calm you and makes you feel more relaxed. It’s also used in hospital to help you relax before some medical or dental treatments.

It’s not known exactly how diazepam works, but it causes a calming effect by increasing the activity of GABA in the brain. Low levels of GABA are linked to anxiety, mood disorders and seizure disorders. Diazepam works by binding to the brain’s receptors for GABA and potentiating its effects. It can be taken by mouth or by suppository. Source micjeffonpharmacy.com

This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness or impaired balance and coordination in some people. If affected, do not drive or operate machinery. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of these symptoms and they worry you. Some side effects are serious and need to be treated immediately. These include confusion, worsening depression, hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there) and suicidal thoughts.

Diazepam for Anxiety: How It Works and What You Need to Know

This medicine can interact with other medicines that affect the nervous system (including SSRI antidepressants, antipsychotics and certain muscle relaxants) and with some foods or drinks. Seek emergency medical treatment if you have these signs of an allergic reaction: slowed breathing, extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness, bluish skin and bluish lips, or blue fingers or toes.