Medicines used to treat the common cold often make you sleepy; what should you do if you are driving?

• A. Often make you sleepy, and should not be used while driving
• B. They have no effect on driving
• C. They improve reaction time
• D. They wake you up

Answer: (A)

Medicines used for the common cold often cause drowsiness, and driving requires alertness. When a cold medicine makes you sleepy, your reaction time and judgment on the road can be slowed, increasing the risk of a crash. That’s why the safest move is not to drive while those medicines are active. Check the label for warnings about drowsiness and follow them. If you must be on the road, choose non-drowsy formulations or postpone driving until the sleepy effects wear off. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives, since they can amplify the drowsy effect. If in doubt, talk to a pharmacist about safer daytime options.