How Long Does Valium Take to Kick In?

Did you know that Valium has a longer half-life than typical drugs? How long does it take to kick in? Valium begins to take its initial effect within 5 to 60 minutes, depending on the route of administration. Valium is a brand name for Diazepam, which belongs to the class of medicines known as benzodiazepines.

Valium is addictive, and it may cause emotional and physical dependence, with a high potential for abuse. ChoicePoint can help you overcome prescription drug abuse and offers medically supervised Benzo detox programs. For more information, call us at 844.445.2565 or visit our addiction treatment center in Fairlawn, New Jersey. 

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What Is Valium And How Does It Work?

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental disorders. However, severe, chronic anxiety may be treated with anti-anxiety drugs. Valium (Diazepam) is a benzodiazepine primarily used to treat anxiety disorders. It is also approved for the treatment  of; 

• Muscle spasms, 
• Seizures, 
• Alcohol withdrawal and
• Sedation before medical procedures to calm the nervous system.

Here is how Valium works: 

1. Valium targets GABA-A receptors in the brain, 
2. Enhances GABA’s natural inhibitory effects to calm neural activity. 
3. When Valium binds to these receptors, it increases their affinity for GABA.
4. This leads to more chloride ions entering neurons and hyperpolarizing them 
5. Thus reducing their likelihood of firing and producing a calming effect.

How Long Does Valium Take to Kick In?- A Complete Guide! 

Valium can be administered through various routes. Each route of administration has its specific characteristics. Here is a detailed guide on how long does Valium take to kick in through different routes:

Oral Administration

Valium starts working within 15 to 60 minutes. Most people will start to feel the effects within 15 to 30 minutes. The strongest effects are usually felt about 1 to 1.5 hours after taking the tablet.

Intravenous Administration

The effects are almost immediate, usually within 1 to 5 minutes. This method is used in emergencies, such as severe anxiety attacks, seizures, or muscle spasms.

Intramuscular Administration

Valium can also be injected into a muscle, such as a deltoid or gluteal muscle. This method works faster than taking it by mouth but slower than intravenous. The effects are felt within 15 to 30 minutes.

Rectal Administration

Valium is available as a rectal gel, often used for seizures. The effects typically begin within 5 to 10 minutes.

How Long Does 5mg Of Diazepam Last?

A 5mg of Diazepam (Valium) may last around 4 to 6 hours. However, the duration may vary based on individual factors such as: 

1. metabolism
2. age
3. overall health 

The drug’s metabolites can remain in the body for much longer, contributing to its continued effects and potential sedation.

How Long Does Valium Take to Work for Certain Conditions

Valium (diazepam), as discussed, is used to treat a variety of conditions like anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and other conditions requiring its sedative and muscle-relaxing effects. Here’s a breakdown of how long Valium generally takes to work for specific conditions:

How Long Does Valium Take to Work for Anxiety?

• Valium typically begins to relieve anxiety symptoms within 15 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
• The peak effect is usually reached within 1 to 2 hours.
• The effects can last for about 4 to 6 hours.

How Long Does Valium Take to Work for Muscle Spasms?

• Relief from muscle spasms can start within 15 to 30 minutes.
• The peak muscle relaxant effect is usually observed within 1 to 2 hours.
• The muscle relaxant effects can last 4 to 6 hours, with residual effects potentially lasting longer due to the drug’s metabolites.

How Long Does Valium Take to Work for Alcohol Withdrawal?

• Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can start to be alleviated within 15 to 60 minutes of taking Valium.
• Peak relief from withdrawal symptoms is usually observed within 1 to 2 hours.
• The duration of symptom relief can be 2 to 5 hours. 

NOTE: Taking valium while on Alcohol can even result in death. As it can cause an overdose. Before using valium for the management of alcohol withdrawal, it is best to take medical advice and learn how dangerous it is to mix benzos with alcohol. To help save yourself or your loved ones. 

What Will Happen If I Stop Taking Valium?

How Quickly Do You Feel The Effects Of Valium?- 5 Key Factors!

When taken orally, Valium typically takes effect within 15–60 minutes. When administered intravenously, onset occurs within 1–3 minutes, which is useful in surgical settings. Additionally, rectal Valium formulation can halt seizures in children within 15 minutes of administration. Several factors may influence how long valium takes to kick in and how long it lasts in the body: 

Dosage

Higher doses can lead to a quicker onset of effects.

Metabolism

Individual metabolic rates significantly affect how quickly Valium is processed and begins working. People with faster metabolisms generally experience quicker effects.

Age and Weight 

Changes in metabolism and body composition due to age and body weight can affect how the drug is absorbed and its onset of action.

Food Intake

Taking Valium with food can slightly slow its absorption, potentially delaying its effects. On an empty stomach, the drug may act more rapidly.

Tolerance 

Long-term use of Valium or other benzodiazepines can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses may be needed for the same effect and delayed onset.

How Long Does Valium Stay In Your System?

Valium and its metabolites can remain detectable in various body fluids for different durations. Take a detailed look below: 

How Long Does Valium Stay In Urine

In urine, traces of valium and its metabolic products can typically be identified for around 3 to 7 days after the last dose, depending on factors like dosage and individual metabolism. 

How Long Does Valium Stay In Blood 

Valium can generally be detected in blood for 6 to 48 hours after the last dose. Blood tests are often used to assess recent use or in cases of overdose.

How Long Does Valium Stay In Saliva 

Saliva tests may show the presence of Valium for up to 1 to 10 days after ingestion.

How Long Does Valium Stay In Hair Follicles

Hair samples can reveal diazepam use over a longer period, ranging from months to years, depending on the length of the hair analyzed.

Valium is effective but should be used strictly under medical supervision due to its potential for dependence and abuse. Long-term use can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. Therefore, following your doctor’s instructions and avoiding adjusting your dosage without consulting a healthcare professional is important.

Addicted To Valium? Get Help From ChoicePoint!

ChoicePoint offers the following levels of care for Valium Addiction depending on the severity and level of dependence;

1. Inpatient Rehabilitation 
2. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
3. Intensive Outpatient Rehabilitation
4. Outpatient Treatment
5. Medication-Assisted Addiction Treatment Program
6. Detox Addiction Treatment Program
7. Aftercare

We accept most insurance programs to help patients financially. Fill out this online form to verify your insurance today and start your journey toward recovery!

Free Addiction Assessment

Please note that this assessment is an initial self-screening and is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

How Quickly Do You Feel The Effects Of Valium?- A Conclusion!

The effects of Valium are generally felt within 15 to 60 minutes after oral administration. Other factors may also influence how long valium takes to kick in and how long does benzo stay in your system. The medication provides a rapid onset of relief for conditions like anxiety and muscle spasms. Still, it is essential to use Valium as prescribed to avoid potential side effects and dependency issues. Misuse of Valium can lead to

Fatal Overdose, 

Risking Comas, 

Lung Collapse and

Even Death. 

Abruptly stopping treatment without adjusting dosage may cause withdrawal issues. Therefore, consulting DEA-certified Practitioners is recommended. To avoid any fatal consequences. 

Online Guide for How Long Does Valium Take to Kick In?

Get more insight into How Long Does Valium Take to Kick In with the following questions.

Is Valium Addictive and What Are Its Common Side Effects

Yes, Valium can be highly addictive. Especially with long-term use or misuse. Common side effects include: 

• Drowsiness 
• Fatigue
• Muscle Weakness
• Dizziness

How Should Valium Be Taken And What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose?

Valium should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor, usually orally with water. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up.

What Is The Shelf Life Of Valium?

The shelf life of Valium is typically 2 to 5 years from the date of manufacture.

What Are The Signs Of Valium Addiction And Can Valium Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

Common signs of valium addiction include: 

• craving the drug, 
• inability to control use, and 
• continuing to use despite negative consequences.

Yes, stopping Valium suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, tremors, and seizures.

What Should You Avoid While Taking Valium?

While taking Valium, you must avoid:

• alcohol, 
• operating heavy machinery and 
• taking other CNS depressants unless prescribed.

Is Valium The Same As Xanax?

No, Valium (diazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are different medications, though both are benzodiazepines.

Sources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537022/ 
2. https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Treatment/Mental-Health-Medications/Diazepam-(Valium) 
3. https://media.healthdirect.org.au/medicines/GuildLink_Information/48566/CMI/iycvaliu10522.pdf