From the Guidelines
Diazepam is not primarily used to treat vomiting. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that is mainly prescribed for anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, seizures, alcohol withdrawal, and as a pre-medication for medical procedures. While it does have some effects on the central nervous system, it is not a first-line treatment for nausea or vomiting. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical practice guideline update 1, lorazepam and diphenhydramine are useful adjuncts to antiemetic drugs but are not recommended as single-agent antiemetics, and there is no mention of diazepam as a primary treatment for vomiting. For vomiting, healthcare providers typically prescribe dedicated antiemetic medications such as ondansetron (Zofran), promethazine, metoclopramide, or prochlorperazine, which work directly on the brain's vomiting center or on the gut's motility. Diazepam's sedative effects might indirectly help with nausea in some anxiety-related cases, but its potential side effects (drowsiness, dependence, respiratory depression) make it unsuitable as a primary anti-vomiting medication.
Some key points to consider when treating vomiting include:
- Identifying the underlying cause of vomiting
- Using dedicated antiemetic medications as first-line treatment
- Considering adjunctive therapies, such as lorazepam or diphenhydramine, in specific cases 1
- Consulting with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.
In terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, it is essential to prioritize effective and evidence-based treatments for vomiting, rather than relying on medications like diazepam that are not primarily intended for this purpose. By using established antiemetic medications and adjunctive therapies as needed, healthcare providers can help improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications associated with vomiting.
From the Research
Diazepam and Vomiting Treatment
- There is no direct evidence from the provided studies that diazepam is used to treat vomiting 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The studies primarily focus on the use of other medications such as ondansetron, metoclopramide, and domperidone for treating nausea and vomiting 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Diazepam is mentioned in one study as a treatment for acute seizures, not vomiting 6.
- The study on diazepam buccal film discusses its use in treating acute seizures, but does not mention its use for vomiting 6.
Alternative Treatments for Vomiting
- Ondansetron, metoclopramide, and domperidone are mentioned as treatments for nausea and vomiting in various studies 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society and the Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome Association recommend the use of tricyclic antidepressants, topiramate, and aprepitant as prophylactic medications for cyclic vomiting syndrome 3.
- Serotonin antagonists, such as ondansetron, and triptans, such as sumatriptan, are conditionally recommended for aborting symptoms of acute attacks of cyclic vomiting syndrome 3.