[Effects of diazepam on oxygen consumption]

Oxygen consumption (VO2) was measured in ten patients before and after the administration of 0.28 mg.kg-1 of diazepam, using a spirometer placed in the circuit of an MA1 respirator functioning on a closed circuit basis. The results showed a significant decrease in VO2 OF 8 p. 100. The differences seen in comparison with previous studies may be explained by differences in the methods of study used. It would appear that this hypometabolic effect is not an intrinsic property of diazepam but rather a consequence of the neurodepressive properties of the drug, on the gamma system in particular.