Diazepam may be taken with or without food. Diazepam is metabolized by the liver and excreted mainly by the kidney. Dosages of diazepam may need to be lowered in patients with abnormal kidney function. Alcohol should be avoided by patients taking benzodiazepines. Because of diazepam's addicting potential, dosages should never be increased by the patient.
Seizures can occur in more severe cases of withdrawal.
Consequently, patients on diazepam for extended periods of time should slowly taper the medication under a doctor's supervision rather than abruptly stopping the medication. Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, can cause fetal problems and should not be used in pregnancy or in breast feeding mothers. Tagamet can prolong the effects of diazepam and dosages may need to be decreased when these drugs are used together. Rarely, diazepam causes a paradoxical reaction with excitability, muscle spasm, lack of sleep, and rage. Confusion, depression, speech problems, and double vision are also rare side effects of diazepam.