Drug Side Effects Can Lead to Car Accidents

December 2008

There are a number of drug side effects and reactions that can lead to car accidents. Therefore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising that people taking over-the-counter and prescription medications make sure the drugs don't impair their driving before they get behind the wheel.

Some of these dangerous reactions include: blurred vision, sleepiness/drowsiness, slowed movement, dizziness, fainting, inability to focus or pay attention, nausea, or excitability. Laws differ from state to state, but driving under the influence of a drug with these side effects can have legal ramifications comparable to drunk driving punishments.

The FDA warns that it is necessary to check individual medications as well as combinations. Below is a list of common types of drugs that can have hazardous side effects:

• Prescription drugs for anxiety
• Some antidepressants
• Products containing codeine
• Some cold remedies and allergy products
• Tranquilizers
• Sleeping pills
• Pain relievers
• Diet pills, “stay awake” pills, and other medications with stimulants (caffeine, ephedrine, and pseudoephedrine)