Function of Librium
Unlike some anxiolytics which are long-term treatments for severe and pervasive panic and anxiety disorders, Librium can also be used for more immediate, short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Benzodiazipines like Librium are central nervous system (CNS) depressants that work by regulating the levels of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. Librium can be used to calm patients awaiting surgery and to help with the withdrawal symptoms for recovering alcoholics.
Drug Interactions and Side Effects with Librium
Alcohol should not be used by people taking Librium, as it can multiply the drug’s CNS depressant effect to dangerous levels. Some side effects experienced with Librium include drowsiness, liver problems, rash and decreased sex drive. People with liver or kidney problems or the disease known as porphyria should use caution when considering Librium and should consult with their doctors before starting treatment. You should also consult your doctor before taking Librium if you take certain over the counter antacids, MAOI inhibitors, barbiturates, blood thinners or narcotic pain relievers. Be sure to tell your doctor about any and all drugs you are taking before he or she prescribes Librium. Do not take Librium if you are pregnant, nursing or expecting to become pregnant in the near future.
How to Take Librium
For mild anxiety, or anxiety as a precursor to surgery, 5 to 10 milligrams three or four times a day is indicated. For more severe anxiety, the dosage can be upped to 20 to 25 milligrams. For acute alcoholism withdrawal symptoms, doctors may prescribe 50 to 100 milligrams a day. In some cases, doctors might prescribe as much as 300 milligrams a day until symptoms are controlled, at which point the the dose should be reduced. Librium can be habit-forming and should only be taken or discontinued under a doctor’s supervision.
About Anxiolytics
Day-to-day anxiety is a normal response to stress and does not usually call for medication. It is only in circumstances of acute anxiety, or persistent anxiety that severely interferes with daily functioning, that medical treatment is usually indicated. Even in these cases, the medical treatment should be accompanied by other forms of therapy that get to the root cause of the anxiety. The prognosis for long term mental health generally improves when patients use cognitive behavioral therapy and other forms of psychological treatment to work through the causes of their anxiety.
