Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements can make it unsafe to drive.  Many medications can:

• Cause drowsiness
• Decrease energy
• Slow reaction time

These effects can be worse when certain medications are taken together or with alcohol.

Some of the medications that affect driving include:

• Tranquilizers
• Pain pills
• Sleep medicines
• Antidepressants
• Cough medicines
• Antihistamines
• Decongestants

Talk to the doctor or pharmacist:

• Inform the doctor about over-the-counter medication your loved one is taking. It could interact with prescription drugs and cause side effects.
• Discuss their medication and its effects on their driving
• Before stopping any medication
• When your loved one starts taking a new medication
• If medication makes them feel sleepy or disoriented

Plan other ways to get around if their medications will affect their driving.