Plugging Valium | Rectal Diazepam Use And Abuse

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D. on February 12, 2021

Valium is a common prescription benzodiazepine that is frequently abused and misused. People that use Valium through rectal administration may suffer negative effects including overdose death from respiratory arrest.

Medically Reviewed by
Johnelle Smith, M.D. on February 12, 2021
Dangers Of Plugging Valium (Diazepam)

Valium (diazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine that is effective for treating anxiety disorders, panic attacks, alcohol withdrawals, and seizures.

However, Valium is commonly abused because of its desired sedative effects on the central nervous system and ability to create feelings of euphoria.

Although Valium is typically taken in pill form, people that abuse benzos may choose to crush and snort pills or make a suppository solution to put into the rectum.

This form of rectal drug use allows for the drug to be absorbed through the rectal tissue into a person’s system with higher bioavailability than with oral administration.

People that abuse prescription benzos like Valium or Xanax (alprazolam) by plugging it may lead to physical dependence, emotional addiction, and dangerous side effects.

People that are addicted to Valium may combine it with other substances like alcohol or opioids, use it with higher dosing, or use it through risky methods like plugging, snorting, or intravenous use.

Side Effects Of Plugging Valium

As a long-lasting benzo, Valium slows brain activity by boosting gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

This long-acting formulation is rapidly absorbed when plugged, which can lead to a surge of dopamine and uncomfortable effects.

Short-term effects of plugging Valium include:

  • dizziness
  • fatigue/sedation
  • drowsiness
  • headache
  • dry mouth
  • loss of coordination
  • euphoria
  • depression
  • low blood pressure
  • muscle weakness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • blurred or double vision

When Valium is abused by plugging or used to excess, it can cause severe long-term effects. A person may become physically dependent on the drug and can also face psychological addiction.

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Tolerance and physical dependence may result, which can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

A person that abuses Valium chronically or recreationally increases their risk of developing the following effects:

  • persistent depression
  • uncontrollable tremors
  • poor coordination
  • lost ability to control movements
  • confusion
  • slurred speech
  • constipation
  • frequent urination or trouble urinating
  • reduced sex drive or ability

Physical Effects Of Plugging Valium

Valium is available in a rectal gel that is fast-acting as an anticonvulsant that helps to control seizures. This method of rectal administration according to good medical advice will include a sterile applicator and lubrication.

People that misuse pill-form drugs like Valium or by taking them rectally may not take the necessary steps or use the correct application method to ensure safe administration.

Many people experience damage to rectal membranes and may have extensive tissue damage as a result.

People with conditions like poor blood flow, persistent diarrhea, low blood platelets, and anorectal disorder can have a particularly hard time with ill-advised drug plugging.

These people may also experience diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and increase their risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection.

Long-Term Effects Of Diazepam Substance Abuse

Sustained benzo abuse, especially through methods like plugging, can lead to both physical dependence and psychological dependence.

Even when used as directed by a healthcare professional, people may develop a Valium tolerance, where it takes more of the drug to achieve the same effects.

This tolerance combined with fast-acting methods of ingestion, like plugging can increase the risk of an unintentional overdose.

People that abuse diazepam and also use other CNS depressants like opioids or alcohol increase their risk of overdose.

They might also use “uppers” like cocaine or amphetamines with benzos to help “smooth out” effects, but increase their risk of overwhelming vital systems.

Increased Risk Of Overdose By Plugging Diazepam

People who used to have a high tolerance for benzos and haven’t used the drug for a period of time may overdose when they plug diazepam at their old dosage.

Plugging drugs like Valium at high levels or with other CNS depressants may seriously slow down the heart and lungs to the point of failure.

Some signs of a Valium overdose include:

  • coma
  • weakness
  • drowsiness
  • nausea and vomiting
  • dizziness
  • lost coordination
  • disorientation
  • blurred vision or double vision
  • slowed or stopped breathing
  • blue fingernails and lips
  • tremors
  • rapid eye movement
  • hiccups

Valium Addiction Treatment Options

The immediate and long-term effects of a substance use disorder involving benzos like Valium are dangerous. If you or a loved one is dependent on benzodiazepines to function normally, consider treatment.

Our treatment specialists can help you find the best treatment program for your needs. Whether you can benefit from a medically supervised inpatient detox or outpatient therapy, we’re here to help you find the best way forward.

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.

These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.

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