Objectives: Diazepam, a benzodiazepine is used clinically for its anxiolytic, sedative-hypnotic, muscle-relaxant effects, and when used therapeutically, little or no attention is paid to its ocular effects or manifestations. Methods: The ocular manifestations or signs after therapeutic ingestion of diazepam on visual functions were determined in ten healthy young adult volunteers. The following visual functions were assessed: pupil size, amplitude of accommodation, near point of convergence,

more »

... ual acuity at near and far, as well as distant and near phoria. Results: Revealed that diazepam has no effect on the pupil diameter, as well as near and distant visual acuity, while the near point of convergence and the amplitude of accommodation increased by 51% and 13.4% respectively. However, the phoria status tended towards orthophoria thereby enhancing existing heterophoria. Conclusion: Consequently, there is need for close monitoring to avoid negative effects on vision following prolonged use of diazepam.