Did you know that in 2022, Valium, the brand name for diazepam, was the 169th most commonly prescribed medication in the U.S., with more than 3 million prescriptions? 

Valium is a benzodiazepine that calms the nervous system, relieving symptoms of anxiety. The medication is effective and works quickly, but it does carry the risk of dependence. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 4.8 million people 12 and older misused benzos in 2020, such as by taking the medication in higher doses or in combination with other substances.  

Due to the risks of Valium, it’s important for people to know how to identify this medication, especially if it falls loose. Let’s look closer at how you can make a positive Valium identification and the treatment options available if you or a loved one is experiencing misuse. Wolf Creek Recovery treats Valium use disorders in a structured yet compassionate environment, allowing clients to rebuild their lives.  

Valium Identification

Valium is a medication that treats anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms, or twitches. It can also reduce the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. The medication belongs to the benzodiazepine group of medications and works by calming the nervous system down. Being able to identify Valium is important for several reasons: 

• Patient safety and proper use. Correctly identifying Valium ensures that patients receive the appropriate dosage and medication. Because Valium is a potent benzo with significant sedative effects, knowing exactly what it is helps prevent accidental misuse, overdose, or dangerous interactions. 
• Avoiding medication errors. Valium can look similar to other medications. Accurately recognizing its appearance helps healthcare providers, pharmacists, and patients avoid confusion.  
• Monitoring and managing side effects. Given its long half-life and potential for dependence, accurately identifying Valium is essential for monitoring side effects, managing withdrawal symptoms, and adjusting treatment protocols. 
• Legal and regulatory compliance. As a controlled substance, Valium must be accurately identified for proper tracking, dispensing, and auditing. 

What Valium Looks Like

Valium is most commonly available in tablet form, although it can also be found as an oral solution. The tablets generally have a round, film-coated appearance and are available in various dosages, such as 2 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg. Depending on the manufacturer and country of origin, the color and imprint details can vary. For example, Valium tablets are often white, off-white, or sometimes light blue and may feature “Valium” or “diazepam” along with the dosage strength. Many tablets are also scored, allowing them to be split for dose adjustments. The liquid form of Valium is typically clear or slightly tinted in a bottle with a dropper or syringe. 

Valium Mixed With Other Drugs

Mixing Valium with other substances can significantly increase the risk of adverse effects, making it essential to understand the potential dangers and exercise extreme caution. Because Valium is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, the sedative effects can be dramatically amplified when taken with other depressants, such as alcohol, opioids, or other benzodiazepines. This interaction can lead to severe drowsiness, impaired motor function, and respiratory depression, which can potentially result in death. 

When Valium is used alongside stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, it can lead to unpredictable effects. The combination of the two can strain the cardiovascular system, cause erratic behavior, and impair decision-making. The interplay between different substances can also lead to a more challenging detox and recovery process, increasing the risk of prolonged withdrawal symptoms. Even over-the-counter medications and supplements can cause adverse reactions when combined with Valium, so always talk to a doctor or pharmacist first. 

Popular Street Names for Valium

The street names for any substance can vary by region and over time. Some commonly reported street names for Valium include: 

• V’s or Val’s
• Vallies
• Blue V’s
• French Blues
• Mother’s Little Helper  
• Downers 
• Tranks
• Sleep Aways
• Candy

What to Do if You Find Valium

If you come across Valium that doesn’t belong to you or isn’t clearly labeled as your prescribed medication, it’s important to handle the situation safely and responsibly. First, do not consume or share the medication, as this can be dangerous. If possible, place the medication in a safe space. If you believe it belongs to a friend or family member, don’t make assumptions, but consider having a non-judgmental conversation with them. 

In many cases, if you find prescription medication in a public area, you can contact law enforcement. If you are told to dispose of the medication, ask your local pharmacy or health department about safe disposal methods. Many communities have medication take-back programs or specific instructions on how to dispose of controlled substances. 

Here are some of the drug take-back programs in Yavapai County:

Prescott:

• Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, 255 E. Gurley St.
• Prescott Police Department, 222 S. Marina St.
• Yavapai College, Prescott Campus, 1100 E. Sheldon St.
• Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson Valley, 4155 W. Outer Loop Rd. Ste. B

Prescott Valley:

• Prescott Valley Police Department, 7601 E Civic Circle
• Walgreens, 2880 N. Centre Court

Verde Valley:

• Jerome Police Department, 305 Main St.
• Clarkdale Police Department, 49 N 9th St.
• Yavapai College, Clarkdale Campus, 601 Black Hills Dr.
• Cottonwood Police Department, 199 S 6th St.
• Camp Verde Marshal’s Office, 646 S 1st St.
• Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, Camp Verde, 2830 N. Commonwealth Dr.

Surrounding Areas:

• Chino Valley Police Department, 1950 N. Voss Dr.
• Sedona Police Department, 100 Roadrunner Dr.

Treatment Options for Valium Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ

Treatment for Valium use disorder involves a combination of medical, therapeutic, and supportive interventions. A carefully planned treatment strategy is crucial, as Valium is a long-acting benzo with a significant potential for dependence. Valium rehab starts with medically supervised detoxification where the dose of Valium is gradually reduced over time to minimize withdrawal symptoms. While there are no medications specifically approved to treat Valium dependence, some medications may be used to help ease withdrawal symptoms and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Once your withdrawal symptoms have subsided, you can participate in a residential or outpatient rehabilitation program that offers behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and holistic and complementary therapies like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga. Aftercare and support groups are effective in the long-term, as they can help you recognize your triggers, develop coping strategies, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. With the right tools and support, you can recover from Valium use disorder and lead a full, productive life. 

If you or a loved one has a problem with Valium, reach out to Wolf Creek Recovery today. We offer treatment services for individuals with substance use disorders, offering a range of behavioral therapies like CBT and DBT, holistic practices such as meditation and yoga, and even a robust outdoor therapy program that gets our clients outdoors and having fun in the Arizona sun. Contact our team today at 833-732-8202 to speak with someone about taking the next steps toward recovery. Build a life you love. 

FAQs About Valium Identification

What does Valium look like? 

Valium is most commonly available in tablet form, though it also comes as an oral solution. Tablets are usually round and film-coated and available in 2 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg strengths. The oral solution is generally clear or may have a slight tint. It comes in a bottle with a dropper or syringe. 

What are some popular street names for Valium? 

Popular street names for Valium that you may come across, depending on your region, are V’s, Valies, Mother’s Little Helper, Tranks, and Blue V’s. 

What should I do if I find Valium out of its bottle? 

Because Valium is a benzodiazepine with a risk of dependence, it’s important to place the medication in a safe space. If you believe it belongs to someone in your household, have an open, honest conversation about it without judgment. If it was found in public, contact your local police department or take it to a drug disposal program.