Single case study. Diazepam (Valium) detoxification

Abstract

In the chronic abuser, diazepam (Valium) withdrawal can be a protracted event. In this report a case is presented of a 37-year-old Caucasian female who had been ingesting 60 to 80 mg of diazepam daily for 8 years. Twelve days following discontinuation of the drug, the patient continued to experience diarrhea, restlessness, emotional lability, and anxiety. Serial blood levels of diazepam and desmethyldiazepam were acquired and found to yield significant levels of desmethyldiazepam for 21 days and greater than trace amounts for 30 days. The results were interpreted as consistent with the slow release of the drug from peripheral storage sites. The prolonged period needed for detoxification in this patient raises important question regarding the appropriate length of hospitalization or close supervision required to withdraw the diazepam addict.