Valium (diazepam) is a long-acting benzodiazepine whose effects typically last between 4 to 6 hours, but in some individuals, the effects can persist up to 12 hours or even 24 hours depending on factors like age, metabolism, and dosage
. The drug reaches peak levels in the bloodstream within 15 to 60 minutes after oral ingestion, with intravenous administration acting faster
. Valium’s long duration is due to its fat solubility and active metabolites, which prolong its presence and effects in the body
. The half-life of Valium ranges widely from about 20 to 80 hours, with its primary metabolite, desmethyldiazepam, having a half-life of 30 to 200 hours. Because of this, Valium and its metabolites can remain detectable in the body for days to weeks, often around 10 days or longer, and in some cases up to 6 weeks, especially with prolonged or high-dose use
. In summary:
- Duration of effects: Typically 4 to 6 hours, up to 12-24 hours in some cases
- Half-life: Approximately 20 to 80 hours for diazepam itself; metabolites last even longer
- Detection in body: Valium can be detected for up to 10 days or more, sometimes weeks after use
- Factors influencing duration: Age, body fat, liver function, dosage, and frequency of use
Because of its long-lasting effects and presence in the body, caution is advised when driving or operating machinery for at least 12 hours after use, or longer if combined with alcohol or other substances
. This makes Valium distinctively long-lasting compared to many other benzodiazepines.
