Question about Valium and MRI?

Question

I have a MRI, MRV, and spinal tap tomorrow. I am very closterphobic so the doctor gave me 2mg of Valium. What exactly does it do? Just relax you? Make you fall asleep? How long before my appt. should I take the pill to make sure it works and how long will it work for? Thanks for any answers!!

Answer 1

Valium, or diazepam, is a in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines.  It is an anxiolytic which means that it reduces anxiety (panicky feelings).  It also has sedative (makes you sleepy) and amnestic (memory disturbance) properties.

If you take the pill one hour before your appointment then you should be safe.  Your doctor should have given you instructions with the medication.  Valium, depending on the person, should last long enough to get you through your procedures.

Good luck with your tests.