Psychotropic Drug Use Increases Likelihood of Car Accidents

 

Drug Use and Car Accident Correlation

Recent studies and past research is showing that patients who are prescribed or take over-the-counter medications for the treatment of anxiety, depression and especially insomnia are more likely than non-users to get involved in a car accident. These drugs are known to alter brain function, and in doing so, can cause delayed reactions, dizziness, or inattentiveness on the road while under the influence of the drugs and/or the next morning.

Hui-Ju Tsai, head researcher in a study published last year in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology states, “Doctors and pharmacists should choose safer treatments, provide their patients with accurate information and consider advising them not to drive while taking certain psychotropic medications.”

However, according to U.S. News, “Although the research shows an association between psychotropic drug use and car accidents, it does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship.”

If you have been involved in a car accident involving drug use, contact Mark Horwitz for a free consultation at 312-641-9200.

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