5 Facts about Librium

Librium is a prescription medication given to individuals who suffer from anxiety disorders and withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism. It can also be used for treating cases of anxiety that occur before someone has surgery.

The drug belongs in the benzodiazepines group, which work by slowing down the activity in the brain to create feelings of relaxation. It is prescribed in capsule form and can be taken up to four times daily. Unfortunately, while Librium offers a number of benefits, those who stop taking it may suffer from Librium withdrawal. Getting to know some interesting facts about the drug can help you decide if it is something you want to take.

1. Librium can be used for a Number of Purposes

Librium is a medication that is only able to be prescribed by a doctor. It is used for treating the following conditions:

• Acute alcoholism withdrawal symptoms
• Anxiety disorders
• Anxiety symptoms that occur before surgery
• Symptoms related to anxiety

The medication may also be prescribed for other purposes. If you are interested in how it may be used for other diseases or conditions, you can speak with your doctor or your pharmacist.

2. The Potential Side Effects of Librium

If you decide to take Librium for any of the aforementioned purposes, or for another reason, you may also experience side effects. Some of the most common side effects reported include:

• Constipation
• Loss of coordination
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Swelling
• Drowsiness
• Bumps appearing on the skin

Keep in mind, this isn’t a list of all the possible side effects of Librium. If you take this drug and experience some other side effect, then you should report it to the FDA.

3. Potential Interactions with Librium

Before being prescribed or taking Librium, it is extremely important that you tell your doctor about all the other medications you are taking, including both non-prescription and prescription medications, herbal supplements and vitamins. You should also tell your doctor if you consume or take any of the following things:

• Alcohol
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which include rasagiline, isocarboxazid, selegiline, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine
• Phenothiazines including trifluoperazine, prochlorperazine, perphenazine, fluphenazine, thioridazine and chlorpromazine

This is also not a complete list of the drug interactions that may occur if you take Librium. This is why it is so important for you to let your doctor know about anything else you are taking.

4. If Taking Librium Make sure to Take Precautions

The fact is, serious side effects have been reported in the past from individuals taking Librium, including withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. If you begin to experience sudden feelings of rage, increased stimulation or excitement, you should let your health care provider know right away. These are referred to as paradoxical reactions.

You may also experience behavioral changes. According to studies related to the drug, Librium patients need to be monitored closely for the first few months of the treatment to see if any changes of behavior occur. If they do, it may be necessary for the doctor to adjust the dosage. In some cases, the medication will have to be discontinued, if the patient begins to suffer from suicidality, mania, hypomania, akathisia, impulsivity, aggressiveness, hostility, irritability, insomnia, panic attacks, agitation that is severe or abrupt.

5. Withdrawal Symptoms May Require Medical Help

If you take Librium and then suffer withdrawal symptoms, you may have to ask for medical help to have the situation handled. While this is not something that occurs with all patients, if it does, it is best to let your doctor know right away as the condition is going to get worse as time passes.

If you are taking Librium, or thinking about taking it, make sure to keep the information here in mind. Doing so will help ensure you don’t suffer withdrawal symptoms or other issues by taking this medication. In the long run, it will help you remain healthy and avoid serious issues.