Cardiopulmonary Arrest Following Small Intravenous Doses of Diazepam (Valium)

Diazepam(Valium), a benzodiazepine derivative, has been widely used for the treatment of anxiety and seizures. Recently, diazepam has been used as preanesthetic medication, preparation for endoscopy, bronchoscopy, cardiac catheterization, arteriography, and to supplement local anesthetic during surgery. One patient who suffered cardiopulmonary arrest after receiving small doses of diazepam intravenously is reported in view of the frequent intravenous use of diazepam. Small doses of intravenous diazepam can cause respiratory arrest. We suggest that equipment and personnel trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and physostigmine be available a whenever diazepam is administered intravenously.