Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Diazepam as follows:
- When taken together, Diazepam can interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. Some medications, such as, oral contraceptives, some antibiotics, anti-GERD agents like omeprazole, inhibit the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Diazepam. Concurrent administration of these medications with Diazepam can inhibit the metabolism of diazepam. Thus, diazepam stays in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal and stand the risk of causing toxicity.
- Avoid taking Diazepam with grapefruit juice, as it can also inhibit the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Diazepam. Concurrent administration of grapefruit juice with diazepam can inhibit the metabolism of diazepam. Thus, diazepam stays in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal and stand the risk of causing toxicity.
- Some medications, such as, phenytoin and carbamazepine, induce the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Diazepam. Concurrent administration of these medications with Diazepam can quicken the metabolism of diazepam and clear the medication out of the body quicker. Thus, diazepam stays in the body for shorter duration of time in comparison to normal and results in compromised therapeutic benefit. If you are being newly started on Diazepam, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with Diazepam. Also, if you have been taking Diazepam for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of Diazepam intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
