Driver Medications

Question 1

For what period of time can a driver on antiarrhythmics be certified?

Answer 1

-one year, provided that the arrhythmia is controlled and the driver is approved to drive by a cardiologist

Question 2

What limitations on certification exist for drivers who use allergy meds,cold meds, and decongestants?

Answer 2

-cannot contain codeine
-doesn’t cause drowsiness
-driver who uses narcotic antitussives to avoid driving for 12 hours

Question 3

Suppose a driver is on anticoagulants at risk for thromboembolic events (e.g. heart attack,DVT). For what period of time can the driver be certified?

Answer 3

-1 year limit on certification is advised
-must have an annual exam; get consultation when needed
-driver must have been on anticoagulants for at least one month and stabilized; driver must provide INR results during examination
-don’t certify a driver who uses anticoagulants for cerebrovascular disorders

Question 4

What should you consider when evaluating a driver with asthma or COPD?

Answer 4

Evaluate:
-stability of breathing problem
-length of inhaler use
-if concerned about driver’s ability to drive safely, consult a pulmonologist
-can be certified for one year

Question 5

For what period of time can you certify a driver who is on antihypertensives?

Answer 5

-Certified for up to one year when the meds are being used to treat HTN
-certify for up to two years if the medication is being used to treat something other than HTN (e.g. it’s being used to treat anxiety)

Question 6

What family of drugs is used to treat heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and atrial flutter?

Answer 6

Cardiac glycosides

Question 7

What’s the maximum period of time for which a driver on cardiac glycosides can be certified?

Answer 7

-Limit certification to one year if all the following criteria are met:
-heart rate is controlled
-driver is approved to drive by cardiologist
-the underlying condition or side effects are not
disqualifying

Question 8

Name some examples of cardiac glycosides.

Answer 8

-Digoxin
-digitoxin
-deslanoside

Question 9

What are some possible side effects of cardiac glycosides that can affect safe driving?

Answer 9

• blurred vision
• halo vision
• confusion
• weakness
• fainting
• disorientation

Question 10

Do ulcerative colitis medicines affect certification?

Answer 10

No limitations as long as the driver tolerates medication well and is not having flare ups.