Danger from driving with flu

DRIVING while suffering from the flu can put motorists at risk as many are unaware that many cold and flu remedies contain alcohol and can have serious side effects.

Two thirds of drivers (64%) say they have driven after taking medication to treat a heavy cold or flu and 13% say they have experienced side effects when driving. The study by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) says drivers are risking drowsiness and reduced levels of concentration when under using these drugs.

During the three year period covering 2011-2013, the police across the UK prosecuted 2676 drivers who were driving under the influence of cold remedies.

Many drivers are unaware that a lot of these remedies contain alcohol and the side effects can include reduced reaction times, blurred vision and feeling lethargic.

The RPS says many drivers (33%) admit to not reading the instructions when taking medication for a cold or flu and they are unaware these treatments could make then unsafe to drive. It also points out some medications can contain alcohol as strong as 18% in the formula.

Gemma Stanbury, of insurance firm Confused.com, said: ‘While most people understand the dangers of drinking and driving, relatively few understand that driving, mixed with some over-the-counter cold remedies could pose just as great a hazard. The research highlights that many motorists are failing to heed the warnings on certain medication and can find themselves becoming drowsy and dangerously tired at the wheel.’

By Press Association reporters