Who can take diazepam
Most adults aged 18 years and over can take diazepam tablets and liquid. People aged over 65 might need to take a lower dose.
Children aged 1 month and older can take it for muscle spasms.
Diazepam rectal tubes can be used by adults and children.
Who may not be able to take diazepam
Diazepam is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor before starting to take diazepam if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to diazepam or any other medicine
- have liver or kidney problems
- have myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness
- have sleep apnoea, a condition that causes breathing problems when you're asleep
- have depression or thoughts of harming yourself or suicide
- have been diagnosed with a personality disorder
- have ever had problems with alcohol or drugs
- have recently had a loss or bereavement
- have arteriosclerosis, a condition that affects the blood flow to your brain
- have low levels of a protein called albumin in your blood
- are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or breastfeeding
- are over 65
- are going to be put to sleep (have a general anaesthetic) for an operation or other medical treatment