Diazepam (Valium) gives a variable degree of sedation. It is a muscle relaxant and therefore should not be used as a sedative in horses. It is also an anticonvulsant, and is used to control status epilepticus. Diazepam also stimulates appetite.
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Diazepam may be given orally or intravenously. Intravenous administration gives a rapid onset of action. The drug is dissolved in propylene glycol, which may cause thrombophlebitis, pain on injection and cardiac arrhythmias.
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As there are few cardiovascular side effect, diazepam is good for use as a premedicant. It can also be used with [[NMDA Antagonists|ketamine]] to induce and maintain anaethesia in the horse and in compromised small animals.