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My husband has chronic low back pain. His doctor just started him on some narcotic medications. I'm concerned about him driving but he still insists he's fine. What are the recommendations for patients taking these drugs?
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There aren't any studies specifically assessing driving skills in patients taking narcotic (opioid) medications. Most of the recommendations are common-sense. Patients are told NOT to drive when there are any cognitive (mental thought processes) effects or impairments. Likewise, they should not participate in dangerous recreational or work activities.
But what are these impairments? Well, falling asleep easily would be one. Slower reflexes and reactions or decreased coordination fit this category. So does decreased concentration or clouded thought processes such as simple math calculations or making a quick decision about simple things.
Medications that are considered narcotics affect the central nervous system. The adverse effects described here are most likely to occur when the drug is first started, when increasing a dose, and when taking other drugs at the same time that can also affect the nervous system. Other drugs can refer to prescribed medications, alcohol, and illegal substances such as marijuana, cocaine, crack, meth, and so on.
In some cases, opioids can actually improve driving ability. Decreased pain (the primary intended effect of the medication) improves cognitive function. Still, anyone who is a bus driver, truck driver, pilot, or makes a living driving other types of heavy equipment should be cleared to drive by the physician prescribing the meds before before doing so on their own.
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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