Diazepam, a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant, can cause which side effect?

Diazepam, a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant, can cause which side effect?

• A. Nausea
• B. Insomnia
• C. Drowsiness
• D. Headache

Answer: (C)

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that enhances GABA’s inhibitory effects in the brain, producing central nervous system depression. This leads to sedation and drowsiness as a common and expected side effect. While nausea, insomnia, and headache can occur with various medications, the most characteristic and frequently seen effect of diazepam’s CNS depressant action is sleepiness. Because of this, patients may feel drowsy and have reduced alertness or coordination, so caution with activities requiring attention is advised.

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that enhances GABA’s inhibitory effects in the brain, producing central nervous system depression. This leads to sedation and drowsiness as a common and expected side effect. While nausea, insomnia, and headache can occur with various medications, the most characteristic and frequently seen effect of diazepam’s CNS depressant action is sleepiness. Because of this, patients may feel drowsy and have reduced alertness or coordination, so caution with activities requiring attention is advised.