Opioids, Antihistamines, and Other Medications Under Review
Certain pain medications can also affect driving safety. Opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, tramadol, codeine, and fentanyl may impair perception, coordination, judgment, and reaction time.
Drivers should also exercise caution with some cough and cold medicines, as they may contain ingredients with sedative effects.
Other medication categories that require particular attention include:
Certain antiepileptic drugs
Barbiturates, such as phenobarbital
First-generation antihistamines with sedative properties
Even medical cannabis, when legally prescribed, requires special care because the presence of THC can impair the abilities needed for safe driving.
What Happens When You Renew Your Driving License?The issue is not limited to roadside checks. In some cases, license renewal may require additional medical assessments.
People receiving long-term treatment with medications that could affect driving ability may be referred to the Local Medical Commission, which evaluates fitness to drive when certain medical conditions are present.
This does not automatically mean losing your driving license. If the treatment is stable, effective, and supported by appropriate medical documentation, the license may simply be renewed for a shorter period, requiring more frequent medical reviews.
The Commission considers several factors, including the individual’s overall health, medication dosage, response to treatment, and the available medical records.
What Should You Do Before Driving?
Before driving after starting a new medication, carefully read the package leaflet and check for any warnings about driving or operating machinery.
Never stop taking a prescribed medication without consulting your doctor. Instead, ask whether your treatment could affect your ability to drive safely.
If you experience symptoms such as severe drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, or slowed reflexes, the safest decision is to avoid driving until you have spoken with your healthcare provider.
