Drivers are urged to check DVLA guidance as 14 common prescription medicines including painkillers and antidepressants may affect driving ability due to drowsiness and slower reaction times
James Rodger Content Editor
10:59, 21 Jan 2026
Thirteen widely prescribed medications could result in motorists being advised against driving(Image: F.J. Jimenez via Getty Images)
Thirteen widely prescribed medications could result in motorists being advised against driving under DVLA regulations. Those taking particular prescription drugs may be cautioned to stay off the roads, as certain medicines can induce drowsiness and impair reaction times.
Britons are being encouraged to consult DVLA guidance and seek advice from their GP or pharmacist, as 14 medications have the potential to compromise driving capability. Greg Wilson from Quotezone stated: “If you are on strong medications, it is likely that you will be recommended to avoid driving.
“Opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and certain antidepressants are examples of medicines that can affect driving ability – as well as those that cause drowsiness or say ‘do not operate heavy machinery.'”.
An AA representative offered practical advice and winter driving safety tips through a video shared on Instagram.
The spokesman emphasised the dangers presented by specific medications which could leave motorists feeling tired and consequently rendering them unfit to drive, reports Birmingham Live.
He stated: “Feeling under the weather? Watch out for cold and flu remedies, and swap the driver’s seat for the passenger’s seat if they make you feel drowsy.”
It’s essential to examine the packaging on any medication being taken for alerts regarding drowsiness, usually signposted by straightforward warnings such as “may cause drowsiness”.
13 widely prescribed medicines that could prompt DVLA to advise motorists to stay off the road.
DextroamphetamineSelegilineClonazepamDiazepamFlunitrazepamLorazepamMethadoneMorphineCodeineTramadolFentanylOxazepamTemazepam
An AA spokesman advised: “You’re going to need to embrace a slower pace and be gentle with your manoeuvres.”
He added: “Remember, winter driving requires a little bit more extra prep. Set aside extra time for your journeys; stick to main roads as they’re usually the first to be gritted; clear your windows completely and make sure your windscreen is fully de-misted before setting off.”
He urged motorists to “gently ease off the clutch in second gear” when pulling away to reduce “wheelspin” and to “only brake gently”.