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Is your medication to blame for your run-in with the law?

On Behalf of | Aug 17, 2020 | drug offenses | 0 comments

Texas police pulled you over recently for driving erratically. They suspected you of intoxication, or that you were on an illicit substance. Is your new prescription to blame for this unfortunate situation?

Some medications do not lend themselves well to driving. Learn how to build a case to fight your drug offense with proper knowledge.

Medication side effects that make it unsafe to drive

Both prescription and over-the-counter medication may have side effects that make it unsafe to drive. Read the prescription label or packaging carefully for these reactions:

  • Excitability
  • Blurred vision
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Inattention/inability to focus
  • Dizziness
  • Decreased reflexes

If you notice such side effects, refrain from driving while taking your medication. Also, learn how long such effects last, such as several hours or a short while after taking a dose.

Medication known to affect driving

Some prescriptions have a higher probability of hampering driving abilities than others:

  • Muscle relaxants
  • Opioid pain relievers
  • Diet pills
  • Anti-psychotic medication
  • Prescriptions with codeine
  • Diarrhea medicine
  • Prescription anxiety medication

While not approved by the FDA beyond a seizure medication for children, CBD is a substance touted for its ability to treat conditions and diseases. If you take any CBD drug products, they could make you sluggish.

Sleep medication that impacts driving the next morning

Do you take medication to help you sleep? If so, the effects may linger the morning after, making it difficult or even dangerous for you to operate a vehicle. If your medication contains zolpidem, its extended- or immediate-release form could impair your ability to function in the morning. Even non-prescription sleeping aids may have this effect.

Do not let an innocent mistake result in long-term legal troubles. You deserve to clear your name and prevent a similar occurrence from happening again.

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