What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking diazepam?

Do not use this medication if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you are allergic to diazepam or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

Before taking diazepam, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

glaucoma;

asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;

kidney or liver disease;

epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or

a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use diazepam, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Diazepam can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use diazepam without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. Diazepam may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. The sedative effects of diazepam may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are taking diazepam. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 months old.