Diazepam Use for Anxiety Disorders
Diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine that can be used for anxiety symptoms, but major guidelines generally restrict benzodiazepines to short-term use in specific crisis settings rather than for ongoing treatment of anxiety disorders. [1], [2]
Core Recommendation From Clinical Guidelines
For generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), benzodiazepines are not offered except as a short-term measure during crises. [1] For panic disorder, benzodiazepines should not be prescribed for long-term treatment because of worse long-term outcomes. [1]
Medication Selection Algorithm
When a benzodiazepine is indicated for short-term crisis management, diazepam is among the benzodiazepines used in clinical practice. [3] First-line long-term pharmacotherapy for GAD and panic disorder is typically based on antidepressants (for example, SSRIs or SNRIs) and evidence-based psychological interventions rather than benzodiazepines. [1]
Initiation Thresholds and Indications
Benzodiazepines are indicated only as a short-term measure during clinical crises in GAD. [1] Benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term management of panic disorder. [1]
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoiding benzodiazepine prescribing for the disorder itself is recommended unless specific short-term criteria are met. [2]
Targets and Goals of Therapy
The goal of any benzodiazepine use for anxiety in guideline frameworks is short-term symptom containment during a crisis rather than sustained control of the underlying disorder. [1]