Medications and the Safety of the Older Driver: Is There a Basis for Concern?

Abstract

Medications with central nervous system (CNS) effects, including benzodiazepines, cyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, narcotic analgesics, and hypoglycemics, have been thought to have the potential to impair driving. These drugs impair performance in younger drivers and some have been linked to an increased risk of motor vehicle crashes. Even though persons 65 years of age and older frequently take these drugs and are more susceptible to CNS effects, no direct data exist regarding whether or not medications adversely affect driving safety in this population. Thus there is an urgent need for further research in this area.