Drivers hitting the road after taking potentially impairing medications
A new study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals that many Americans admit to taking one or more potentially impairing medications before getting behind the wheel.
These potentially impairing medications were defined as antihistamines, cough medicines, antidepressants, prescription pain medicines, muscle relaxants, sleep aids, and amphetamines.
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The study found that over a 30-day period, about half of Americans reported using a potentially driver-impairing medication (PDI).
During that same 30-day period:
- Nearly half (45%) of those who reported using one or more PDI medications admitted to driving within two hours of using at least one medication.
- *63% of people who reported taking two or more PDI medications (within 30 days) drove within two hours of a dose.
- *71% of drivers who reported taking three or more PDI medications (within 30 days) drove within two hours of a dose.
Those people surveyed reported taking the following medications within two hours of driving:
- 73% reported taking amphetamines.
- 61% reported taking antidepressants.
- 39% reported taking antihistamines and/or cough medicines.
“Impaired driving is often associated with alcohol or illegal drug use, but over-the-counter or prescription medications can also compromise your ability to drive safely,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. “Unfortunately, not everyone realizes their medications can impair their driving and make the mistake of getting behind the wheel.”
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According to the study, 20-50% of drivers said they received no warning from a health care provider on how PDI medications could impair their driving ability. However, those people who did receive a warning were only 18% less likely to get behind the wheel.
Anyone taking PDI medications should speak with their doctor or pharmacist. Those planning or currently taking medications should know the potential side effects.
“AAA urges drivers to fully understand the side effects of your medications before driving and consider a designated driver if it’s not safe for you to be behind the wheel,” said Jenkins.
To learn more about the AAA survey, read the full report here.
*Not necessarily taking medications at the same time.
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