Evidence is accumulating that common medicines contribute to crashes by making drivers drowsy or otherwise less capable than they should be. besides tranquilizers, the drugs that most frequently impair driving ability include the following analgesics; anticholinergics; antihistamines; antihypertensives; sedatives/hypnotics; antipsychotics; and stimulants. When such drugs are mixed with each other or with alcohol, the negative results can be intensified. Statements byexperts on the subject are quoted. Recommendations from scientific meetings on this subject are listed; drivers must be made aware of the impairment effects of drugs; research is needed on the effects ofsuch drugs; and better labeling could grade drugs for their effect on driving performance.
Abstract