[The solubilizer of diazepam (valium)--its action on respiration (author's transl)]

Investigations carried out in volunteers showed that when compared with physiological saline the solubilizer of diazepam caused hyperventilation. Among the constituents of the solubilizer propylene glycol and ethyl alcohol have to be excluded, likely benzyl alcohol was due to the respiratory response. Benzyl alcohol has local anesthetic properties and its action on respiration has never been examined up to now. Therefore a further study was performed to compare ampoule solutions of diazepam with or without benzyl alcohol in the solubilizer used. The solutions were given intravenously, the dose of diazepam was 0.35 mg/kg, that of benzyl alcohol 1.1 mg/kg respectively. The measurements showed that solutions containing benzyl alcohol produced a statistical significant increase of respiratory rate and of minute volume. In case of intravenous administration of Valium using ampoule solutions diazepam and in addition a second active substance are applicated. The latter defined as benzyl alcohol has stimulating effects on respiration.