How long does valium stay in your system?

Valium is a popular drug often used to treat anxiety, seizures, and a host of other illnesses. While it is a dangerous drug with a high potential for abuse or physical dependence, doctors still tend to prescribe it as a first-line treatment. This is perhaps contributing to the drug’s widespread availability and popularity. 

If you’ve ever been prescribed valium, you may be wondering, “How long does valium stay in your system?” This is important information to prevent dangerous drug interactions or other hazardous situations. Drug rehabilitation specialists, medical staff, and even professional athletes can also benefit from understanding more about how valium works in the system and how long it can be detected in the human body.

Here’s what you need to know.

What is valium?

Valium is a medication that is available only by prescription. It belongs to the benzodiazepine family and comes in either liquid or pill form. It is often used to treat muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal, in addition to anxiety and seizures. 

To answer the question, “How long does valium stay in your system?” It is important to understand that this drug should only be taken for a short time under medical supervision. Extended Valium use allows the drug to build up in the body. 

Valium has a longer half-life than many other drugs, between 20 – 50 hours on average. This means that it is also expelled from the system more slowly. The concentration of the drug gradually declines as it is naturally eliminated from the body. 

Is valium addictive?

Valium carries a high risk of abuse or physical dependence, which is why it should only be used for a short time. It binds to receptors in the brain and spinal cord to relax the nervous system. Long-term valium use can result in a higher tolerance or addiction to the drug. Stopping abruptly may prompt cravings and physical withdrawal symptoms. 

Valium can also have a dangerous interaction with other drugs, such as certain antidepressants and pain medications. It is important to discuss all medications and herbal supplements with your doctor before taking Valium. Many times, other safer options may be available for the particular illness you are trying to treat. 

How long does valium stay in your system?

Valium builds up in your system over time, especially with extended use or high dosages. Drug screens test for the presence of valium or its metabolites, which are produced as the body metabolizes the drug. The most common tests for valium include blood, hair follicle, saliva, and urine tests. While many factors impact the length of time valium can be detected in your system, here is the average time span for each test.

  • Blood – Valium can usually be detected up to 48 hours after the last ingestion.
  • Hair follicle – It may be detected for up to 90 days after the last dose with a hair follicle test.
  • Saliva – Valium may be detected for up to 10 days after the last dose. 
  • Urine – This is the most popular test for valium. It can detect the drug for up to 6 weeks after the last ingestion.

Valium is Highly Addictive

Valium is a dangerous drug that is highly addictive. If you’re wondering, “How long does valium stay in your system?” then you may have been prescribed the drug. If you or a loved one have become addicted to Valium, medical intervention is necessary to safely detox off the drug. A comprehensive treatment program can help you control cravings and learn new coping skills to live a healthy, drug-free life. Abruptly stopping a valium regimen can be dangerous, so it’s crucial to get medical assistance. Living your best sober life without valium addiction is possible with the right help.