Spain's Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) said that certain medications can severely impair a person's ability to safely operate a vehicle [1, 2].
This alert comes as part of a broader effort to improve road safety. By identifying specific pharmacological risks, the agency aims to prevent accidents caused by reduced cognitive and physical capacities that drivers may not immediately recognize.
The DGT said that the risks extend beyond prescription drugs to include some over-the-counter medications [1, 2]. These substances can introduce a variety of adverse effects that compromise a driver's control over their vehicle.
Among the primary concerns listed by the authority is the onset of drowsiness, which can lead to a loss of alertness, or sudden sleep during transit [1, 2]. The agency also identified blurred vision as a critical risk factor, as it obstructs the driver's ability to perceive road signs and hazards accurately [1, 2].
Physical coordination is another area of concern. The DGT said that some drugs cause a slowed reaction time—a delay that can be fatal during emergency braking or sudden maneuvers [1, 2]. Additionally, the authority highlighted the risk of a general loss of coordination, which affects the precise movements required for steering and pedal control [1, 2].
Drivers are encouraged to review the leaflets accompanying their medications and consult with healthcare providers regarding the safety of driving while using specific treatments [1, 2]. The agency said that awareness of these side effects is essential for the safety of both the driver and other road users.
“Certain medications, including some over-the-counter drugs, can impair driving ability.”
This warning reflects a shift toward treating medication-impaired driving with the same level of scrutiny as alcohol or drug impairment. By explicitly listing side effects like slowed reaction times and blurred vision, the DGT is placing more responsibility on the individual driver to vet their medical treatments against road safety standards, potentially leading to stricter enforcement or updated medical requirements for license renewals.
