Prescription drug driving threat to road safety

Posted May 29th 2008

by DPS

Despite warning labels, prescription drug users – especially those over the age of 55 – are twice as likely as illicit drug users to get behind the wheel after their use, according to new research from leading insurer AAMI.

The research, which canvassed Australians about their use of prescription and illicit drugs and driving, showed that while one in 10 Australians (11%) has driven after using marijuana, cocaine, speed or ecstasy, twice as many (21%) have driven after taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines – even though the label warned them not to.

AAMI public affairs manager, Geoff Hughes, said AAMI’s research showed many Australian drivers were taking prescription and over-the-counter drug warnings lightly.

“The survey clearly showed that Australian drivers were not paying appropriate attention to warning labels, with a significant number getting behind the wheel after using prescription and over-the-counter medications that contain warnings against driving after their use,” Mr Hughes said.

“This behaviour is potentially life-threatening for themselves and other road users. Drivers who are using prescription or over-the-counter drugs should check the labels for any warnings against driving before even thinking about using their cars. If they are unsure whether their medication could affect their ability to drive, they should ask their doctor or pharmacist.”

AAMI’s research showed Australian drivers aged over 55 were the biggest offenders of prescription and over-the-counter drug use and driving. One-quarter of these older drivers (27%) admitted using prescription and over-the-counter drugs and driving, followed by drivers aged 18 to 34 (25%).

Women were just as likely as men to drive under the influence of these types of drugs (21% of women compared to 22% of men).

Some common prescription and over-the-counter drugs, and their possible side effects:

Diazepam Valium Anxiety: insomnia, drowsiness, dizziness or clumsiness
Alprazolam Xanax Anxiety: insomnia, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness or clumsiness
Lorazepam Ativan Anxiety: insomnia, vision changes, drowsiness, dizziness
Fluoxetinehydrochloride Prozac Depression: abnormal vision, dizziness, ear ringing
PheniraminemaleateAvil (retard) Allergies: drowsiness, dizziness, lack of concentration
Paracetamol,codeine phosphate,doxylaminesuccinateMersyndol Pain: dizziness, drowsiness
Methylmorphine Codeine Pain Management: nausea, drowsiness, dizziness
Morphine sulfate Roxanol Pain Management: muscle twitches, lightheadedness, unconsciousness, fainting
Hydrocodone Vicodin Pain Management: light-headedness, dizziness
Diclofenac Sodium Voltaren Pain Inflammation: seizures, weakness, dizziness, ear ringing