2010 BC Guide in Determining Fitness to Drive

dizziness, andblurred or double visionImpairments are greater with higher dosage and with drugs that have a longer half-life.Those using sedatives and hypnotics are subject to developing dependency, addiction andincreasing tolerance of the effects. Because of this, Health Canada advises that these drugsshould only be used for short periods (e.g. less than 2 months for anxiety; 7 to 10 days forinsomnia). Nonetheless, research indicates that long-term use is not uncommon. Long-termadverse effects of benzodiazepine may include cognitive decline, unwanted sedation andimpaired coordination.Stimulants (for ADHD) and NarcolepsyThere is some indication that stimulants may have a positive effect on driving performance.However, the effect of stimulant medication on the functional ability of individuals with ADHDis unclear because of the methodological limitations of research to date.ConditionType of drivingimpairment andassessment approachPrimary functionalability affectedAssessment toolsUse ofpsychotropicdrugsPersistent Impairment:Functional assessmentCognitiveDriver’s MedicalExamination ReportCognitive screening toolssuch as; MOCA, MMSE,SIMARD-MD, Trails Aor BDriveABLE assessment29.5 CompensationWhile an individual can’t compensate for the effects of psychotropic drugs, they can take steps tomitigate the impact that these drugs may have on their ability to drive, such steps include:1. Adjust dosage2. Not driving when initiating therapy3. Taking medication at different times of day. e.g. bedtime for sedating medication4. Getting used to the effects (2-4 weeks adjustment period for most medication)5. Changing medication to one with less side effects6. Beware of over the counter medications contribution to additive effects7. Leading a healthy lifestyle. e.g. enough rest, nutrition etc.8. Avoiding concurrent alcohol use363