Over-the-Counter Medications and Impaired Driving

Not all over-the-counter medications are dangerous. On the other hand, certain varieties can lead to side effects like:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Poor coordination
• Slow reaction times
• Difficulty concentrating
• Restlessness

Any of these side effects could make driving hazardous. Worse still, because over-the-counter medications can cloud the mind and impair judgment, a driver may not notice the symptoms until too late.

Numerous studies have shown the dangers of over-the-counter medications. For example, one 2020 study found that drivers using over-the-counter sleep aids were 42% more likely to be involved in a car accident.

Many types of over-the-counter medications can have potentially dangerous side effects. The most common examples include:

• Sleep aids (e.g., Melatonin, Valerian)
• Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl, Allegra)
• Cold or cough medication
• Antidiarrheal medications
• Anti-nausea or motion sickness medications (e.g., Dramamine)
• Stimulant pills (e.g., caffeine, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine)
• Diet pills
• Anti-anxiety medications
• CBD products

Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward black-and-white guide to what medications may impair your ability to drive. Not everyone will be affected by medications in the same way. What’s safe for one person may be dangerous for another. In addition, some medications are safe on their own but may cause problems when paired with other substances, such as alcohol or a different medication.

By taking the proper precautions, you can stay safe while using most over-the-counter medications. Here are some tips to remember:

• Make sure you genuinely need medication before taking it. Using over-the-counter medications “just because” will create unnecessary risks.
• Avoid taking multiple medications at once if possible. Mixing medication can lead to new side effects.
• Always read the warnings included with over-the-counter medication and follow the directions for safe use.
• If a medication label recommends that you avoid operating heavy machinery while taking that medication, follow that recommendation. Remember that cars are considered heavy machinery.
• Be vigilant for possible symptoms of impairment, such as drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and slow reaction times.
• If you’re concerned about how an over-the-counter medication affects or could affect you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can offer guidance on how to minimize any risks involved.
• If family or friends notice side effects, take their concerns seriously. The medication may affect your perception, keeping you from seeing your own impairment.
• If you feel that your driving is impaired, find a safe alternative for getting where you need to go. This may mean letting a friend or family member drive, using a ridesharing service like Uber, or taking public transportation.

Everyone knows drunk driving is illegal. But what about other forms of impairment? Is it illegal to drive while under the influence of an over-the-counter drug?

Yes—it certainly can be. Under Minnesota law, drivers can be charged with a DWI if they are sufficiently impaired by over-the-counter medication. Driving under the influence of over-the-counter medications can also be considered negligence in a civil lawsuit.

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