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Summary
Current research is inconclusive on whether diazepam impairs driving ability. While anxious patients should avoid driving, diazepam
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Traffic Safety
Background:
- Diazepam is a commonly prescribed medication for anxiety and related conditions.
- Concerns exist regarding its potential impact on driving performance.
- Existing literature provides conflicting evidence on diazepam's effects on driving.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing literature on the effects of orally administered diazepam on driving ability.
- To determine if diazepam use necessitates an automatic prohibition from driving.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental studies.
- Literature review of epidemiological studies.
Main Results:
- Neither experimental nor epidemiological studies provide clear evidence of diazepam adversely affecting driving ability.
- Diazepam may alleviate symptoms like anxiety, aggression, or depression, which themselves can impair driving.
Conclusions:
- An automatic prohibition of driving due to diazepam use is not warranted based on current evidence.
- Patients taking diazepam should be advised to exercise caution when driving.
- Anxious, aggressive, or depressed patients are advised against driving, irrespective of medication.