Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Latest news, weather and high school sports for Albany and Southwest Georgia

Pharmacists prescribe not driving while using medication
Posted: 09.12.2012 at 5:38 PM
Updated: 09.13.2012 at 1:45 AM
Matt Prichard

Matt Prichard joined the Fox 31 News Team in May of 2012 as a general assignment reporter.

0
Medication while driving is not prescribed by Pharmacists  / Matt Prichard
Photo

ALBANY, GA -- Knowing the dangers of drunk driving is important, but what about medicated driving? A new survey from the Auto Club shows that 82% of drivers 65 and older are taking some form of prescription medication.

"Only about half of them have talked to their doctor about possible safety issues related to those medications and how those are interacting while their driving," said AAA spokeswoman, Michele Harris.

Seniors in Albany though stand firm saying they would never be under the influence of their medication while behind the wheel.

"I'm not going to drink anything nor do any of that while driving, because I think at my age I have to be extra careful," said Albany resident, Shirley Cochran.

Others say they wouldn't take their meds while driving, but generally have taken a dose earlier in the day.

"You mean would I take it while I’m driving? No, I would stop," said Albany resident, Thomas Ledford.

But not all medications can cause impaired driving, however pharmacist Stan Crawford says there are some key meds to be aware of.

"That can happen with any kind of pain medication they may be taking, some of the anti-anxiety drugs can do that, something with an antihistamine in it can do that," said Crawford.

Crawford went on to say that it is vital for seniors to be aware of the side-effects to their medications, simply to protect themselves.

"Their reaction times will not be as quick, they may be a little disoriented at times, and their depth perception can be affected," said Crawford.

Crawford recommends that seniors test out a medication without driving first, and see how it affects them. And most importantly consult with their doctor about potential side effects.

Related Links

Popular Stories
Thumbnail
Child death investigation in Albany
Jessica Fairley  |  Yesterday at 5:55 PM  |  3 comments
Thumbnail
Lawsuit claims no arms, no legs thanks to Phoebe
Romney Smith  |  Yesterday at 5:42 PM
Thumbnail
Operation Run or Gun aims to keep streets safe
FOX 31 News Team  |  Today at 10:02 AM  |  1 comment
Follow My Southwest GA
Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below
Sign up to get alerts and updates for breaking news, severe weather, and deals:
submit
ADVERTISEMENT
Special Features
Win a booster seat!
Click above for your chance to win a booster seat and get safety tips for your child!
Bright Side
Spreading the good news around Southwest Georgia!
Legal
Finding the right lawyer to handle your needs is important.
ADVERTISEMENT