Drivers are being warned before taking to the roads for long journeys
Motorists are being urged to exercise caution over the medication they take before driving. Some common over-the-counter medicines could impair your ability to drive and it's necessary to be aware of potential side effects.
In particular, experts are issuing warnings about travel sickness tablets. This advice is particularly timely as many families embark on summer road trips or head to airports for holidays, potentially taking travel sickness remedies, reports Birmingham Live.
It's important to always check for any possible side effects when taking medication. Medicines that may induce drowsiness or affect concentration levels could render driving unsafe.
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Those uncertain about the effects should consult their doctor or pharmacist. Travel sickness tablets that contain hyoscine hydrobromide may affect someone's ability to drive safely.
In the event of an accident while under the influence of medication, individuals could face charges of dangerous or careless driving. Such incidents could lead to severe penalties, including fines, points on your licence, a driving ban, or even criminal charges in grave situations.
A motoring specialist from Bumper has warned: "Driving while experiencing side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision could lead to a £1,000 fine for not having proper control of the vehicle or a clear view of the road ahead.
"If you're unsure whether it's safe to drive after taking travel sickness medication, it's important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before getting behind the wheel."
To avoid relying on medication, Bumper recommends these tips to help prevent travel sickness naturally:
The NHS website says of hyoscine hydrobromide: "It is a travel sickness medicine that belongs to a group of medicines called anticholinergics or antimuscarinics.
"It's thought to work by affecting your inner ear and your brain to control vomiting. It also relaxes the muscles in the walls of your stomach. Hyoscine hydrobromide comes as patches that you stick to your skin and tablets that you suck, chew or swallow.
"It can also be given by injection, but this is usually only done in hospital. It is given to reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth which can help with symptoms if you're having palliative or end of life care.
"You can buy the tablets and patches at pharmacies."
