Benzodiazepine (Valium) overdose

About Benzodiazepine (Valium) overdose

Benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan) are tranquilizers and are commonly prescribed for anxiety, panic attacks, and as muscle relaxants. An overdose can cause coma, severe respiratory depression and death. The symptoms of intoxication are accentuated by the co-ingestion of narcotic pain medications and/or alcohol.

Symptoms

Confusion, coma, incoordination, sleepiness, slurred speech, decreased respiratory effort.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Lab and radiology tests will be done to rule out other causes of the symptoms.

Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

The respiratory and circulatory symptoms are aggressively treated. Specific therapy may include mechanical ventilation and intravenous fluids. A reversal agent, flumazenil (Romazicon), is available but must be used with caution since it can induce seizures in patients taking benzodiazepines chronically. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.

Medical specialties

Medical Toxicology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Benzodiazepine (Valium) overdose.