DVLA warning as common medications could see you banned from driving
'Strong medications' could see drivers banned from the roads.
Greg Wilson, the founder of Quotezone.co.uk, has cautioned drivers that DVLA officials have the authority to advise those with specific health conditions to "stop driving" and may recommend avoiding driving for individuals on certain medications.
He highlighted the risk for those taking "strong medications" which could lead to a revoked licence, naming opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and "certain antidepressants" as examples due to their potential to cause "drowsiness".
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In addition, drivers born before 1955 are alerted about two assessments that might be required to maintain their driving licence. Greg explained: "If you are on strong medications, it is likely that you will be recommended to avoid driving. Opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and certain antidepressants are examples of medicines that can affect driving ability – as well as those that cause drowsiness or say 'do not operate heavy machinery."
The NHS has issued guidance stating: "Some antidepressants can cause dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision, particularly when you first start taking them. If you do experience these problems, you should not drive or use tools and machinery."
It is essential to note that the term "excessive sleepiness" refers to a condition where it affects driving, as defined by the DVLA. Any mention of "drowsiness" in DVLA guidelines also implies excessive sleepiness.
According to reports, individuals suffering from moderate or severe Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSAS) with excessive sleepiness are not allowed to drive until their condition is under control, as confirmed by a Sleep Clinic, and they are complying with CPAP treatment. The DVLA must be informed of this condition, reports Chronicle Live.
Medical confirmation is required to show that symptoms are under control, and if a driving license has been revoked, an application can be made for its reinstatement. In cases where OSAS is suspected, driving is not permitted until the condition is diagnosed and excessive sleepiness is controlled by treatment.
If moderate or severe OSAS is diagnosed, the DVLA must be notified. For mild OSAS, notification is only required if excessive sleepiness persists after three months.
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