What medications can make driving dangerous?

      In autumn, many people start taking allergy and cold medications, as well as drugs for the treatment of chronic diseases. Some of these can affect attention, coordination, and reaction speed, increasing the risk of accidents. This was stated by Alexey Nikitin, a cardiologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, and Medical Director of INVITRO.

      According to the specialist, particular attention should be paid to one's condition when taking antihistamines. Some of them have a pronounced sedative effect and can cause drowsiness and sluggishness.

      Similar consequences are possible when taking combined cold and flu medications, as they may contain components that depress the central nervous system. Caution is also necessary when using sedatives and sleeping pills. They can not only cause drowsiness and slow reaction but also maintain their effect into the next morning.

      Tranquilizers and anxiolytics can affect the ability to drive. They can reduce attention concentration and reaction speed. Some antidepressants can also cause drowsiness, dizziness, coordination disturbances, and other conditions incompatible with safe driving.

      Opioid analgesics pose a particular danger. They can cause sluggishness, drowsiness, and coordination disturbances.

      Caution should also be exercised with some muscle relaxants, which can provoke muscle weakness, dizziness, and drowsiness.

      Anticonvulsants can also affect the driver. Possible side effects include dizziness, coordination disturbances, and blurred vision.

      The intake of some antihypertensive medications may be accompanied by weakness, dizziness, and a sharp drop in blood pressure when changing body position. All of this can create a dangerous situation while driving.

      Medications for diabetes also pose a risk for drivers, as they can sometimes cause hypoglycemia—a sharp drop in blood sugar levels. This can lead to dizziness, confusion, and loss of concentration.

      It is also necessary to consider medications containing alcohol. Ethanol in their composition can enhance the effects of other drugs that affect the central nervous system. Caution is required when using certain eye and ear drops. They can temporarily impair vision, cause dizziness, or drowsiness.

      However, the mere fact of taking the listed medications does not automatically mean a ban on driving. Much depends on the specific drug and the individual's reaction.

      Doctors advise carefully reading the medication instructions before traveling, especially the section on its effects on the ability to operate a vehicle. If the medication is being taken for the first time, it is better to refrain from driving until the body's reaction is understood.

      One should also avoid driving when experiencing drowsiness, dizziness, or decreased concentration. The combination of several medications with a sedative effect can enhance their action. If necessary, a doctor can prescribe alternative treatment with less impact on the ability to drive a car.