Librium

 
What is Librium and why is it prescribed?
Librium is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Librium is also prescribed for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of withdrawal in acute alcoholism, and anxiety and apprehension before surgery. Librium belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. Librium is habit-forming and you can become dependent on it. You could experience withdrawal symptoms if you stopped taking it abruptly. Discontinue or change your dose only on advice of your doctor.

How should you take Librium?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Librium. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember if it is within an hour or so of your scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Librium away from heat, light, and moisture.

Are there any Librium side effects?
Librium side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Librium side effects may include confusion, constipation, drowsiness, fainting, increased or decreased sex drive, liver problems, lack of muscle coordination, minor menstrual irregularities, nausea, skin rash or eruptions, swelling due to fluid retention, and yellow eyes and skin. Side effects due to rapid decrease or abrupt withdrawal from Librium include abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, exaggerated feeling of depression, sleeplessness, sweating, tremors, and vomiting.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Librium?
If Librium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Librium is a central nervous system depressant and may intensify the effects of alcohol or have an additive effect. Do not drink alcohol while taking Librium. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Librium with Antacids (such as Maalox and Mylanta), Antidepressant drugs known as MAO inhibitors (including Nardil and Parnate), Barbiturates (such as phenobarbital), Blood-thinning drugs (such as Coumadin), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Disulfiram (Antabuse), Levodopa (Larodopa), Major tranquilizers (such as Stelazine and Thorazine), Narcotic pain relievers (such as Demerol and Percocet), or Oral contraceptives.

Are there any special warnings about Librium?
Librium may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. If you are severely depressed or have suffered from severe depression, consult with your doctor before taking Librium. Librium may cause children to become less alert. If you have a hyperactive, aggressive child taking Librium, inform your doctor if you notice contrary reactions such as excitement, stimulation, or acute rage. Consult with your doctor before taking Librium if you are being treated for porphyria or kidney or liver disease.
 

Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.

 

Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved.