HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

In Spain, the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has been actively raising awareness about the incompatibility of certain drugs with driving. The DGT's campaigns emphasise that some medications can produce effects similar to harmful substances, prompting the Civil Guard to conduct drug tests on drivers. These controls are aimed at reducing accident rates and highlighting the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs.

The DGT has launched awareness campaigns to inform the public about the potential risks associated with specific medications and their impact on driving. It's highlighted that certain medications might lead to positive results in tests for harmful substances. This awareness campaign serves as a vital reminder for individuals to be cautious about the medications they take before getting behind the wheel.

Medications Leading to False Positives

A few years ago, the DGT compiled a list of medications that could pose a danger to driving, despite their beneficial effects on health. These medications include:-

• Anxiolytics
• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Psychostimulants

Interestingly, these medications could trigger positive test results for THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), often found in drugs derived from opium.

Notable symptoms associated with these medications are drowsiness, blurred vision, euphoria, sleep disturbances, and dizziness. These effects can significantly impair a driver's ability to maintain an optimal state for driving, especially in situations requiring quick reactions.

Prominent among these medications is ibuprofen, which has been known to lead to failed drug tests. The consequences of taking these medications and then operating a vehicle without a prescription can be severe, both legally and in terms of road safety.

Legal Penalties

If an individual tests positive for drugs during an arrest and fails to present a valid medical prescription, the penalties can be substantial. Fines of up to 1,000 euros might be imposed, along with the loss of 6 points from the driver's licence. Moreover, if reckless behaviour precedes the positive test, the penalty could escalate to a sentence ranging from 3 to 12 months in prison and a driving licence suspension of 1 to 4 years.

Recommendations for Medication Users

For individuals taking these medications and intending to drive, it's crucial to carefully read the package insert. The package insert provides information about the potential effects of the medication on driving. Notably, effects that significantly interfere with driving are marked with a symbol depicting a car within a red triangle. If this symbol is present on the package, individuals should refrain from driving after taking the medication to ensure road safety.

The DGT's efforts to raise awareness about the compatibility of medications with safe driving underscore the importance of responsible medication usage. Understanding the potential risks associated with certain drugs and their impact on driving can help individuals make informed decisions that prioritise road safety for themselves and others.