Diazepam Potency, Dosage & Effects: A Comprehensive Guide

Relative potency: 10–20 times that of diazepam

Oral bioavailability: 90%

Onset of action: 15–30 minutes

Peak effect: 2–3 hours

Duration of action: 6-8 hours

The therapeutic dose range of diazepam per day is 2-10 mg, divided into two or more doses. The typical starting dosage for most tranquilizers is 2 to 4 mg two to four times a day, gradually increasing the dosage to the óptimum, which usually is 4 to 40 mg per day. In exceptional cirsumstances doses up to 100 mg per day have been used. Diazepam also may be given intravenously, intramuscularly, or rectally.