Tools & tips

Mixing drugs with other drugs or alcohol can seriously affect your health and your ability to drive safely.

• Never drive after taking illegal drugs.
• Never drive after taking prescribed or over-the-counter medications that could affect your driving.
• If you take a prescription or illegal drug and you are unsure of the effect of that drug on your ability to drive, don’t drive, use public transport, ask someone else to drive or catch a taxi.

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to mix your medications or to drink alcohol while on your medication and how the drugs you are taking can affect your driving. Always follow the recommended dose, read the information and warning messages provided on the container or information provided with your medication, and never take someone else’s medication.

When taking prescription and over-the-counter medications, you should consult with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss:

• any adverse effects you may be experiencing when taking medications
• any changes to the dosage or new medications you may be taking
• warning labels or potential effects of any medication you are taking on your ability to drive safely (as well as safety associated with other common activities)
• combined or cumulative effects of any other medications you are taking at the same time (e.g. you may be fine to drive when taking one medication or another, but not when you take both)
• effects of alcohol when taking medications
• how to use and store your medication
• what to do if you miss a dose of your medication
• when it is appropriate to stop taking your medication.

If you are unsure how drugs may affect your driving, think about asking someone for a lift, catch public transport or arrange a taxi or booked hire service. This will allow you to monitor the effects the drugs are having on your system.