Alester Brown

Can You Drive After Taking Allergy Medicine?

Seasonal and environmental allergies can come with several frustrating side effects, but drowsiness is among the most challenging. Unfortunately, drowsiness from allergies can be made worse when taking certain medications. Some allergy medications cause users to be more alert, but if you end up taking cold medicine in an attempt to combat coughing and sneezing, drowsiness from allergies may be compounded by drowsiness from your medications.

Is It Safe to Drive?

Because of the potential for drowsiness resulting from allergies as well as medications, it's smart to wonder whether you can safely drive while taking allergy medications. For most people, this won't be an issue, but you need to consult with your physician to be sure. Also, read the label on any allergy medications you take. The label should include warnings against driving if this is a concern while under the influence of any medication.

If you decide to drive after taking allergy medication, pay close attention to how you feel and your performance behind the wheel. If at any point you begin to notice you're driving erratically or not paying attention, you need to find a safe place to pull over and call for help. Don't try to take chances, and don't rely on coffee or energy drinks to keep you awake. These may contain ingredients that can interact with medications and cause adverse reactions.

Other Options

If you need to get somewhere but you also need to take allergy medication that can make you drowsy, consider calling a friend or family member to drive you. If these options aren't available, look into public transport in your area. A bus or taxi will be safer than taking risks with your health. You can also look into ride-share services in your area to see what's available. These services may be more expensive than public transportation, but they will also be safer than driving while drowsy.

Disclaimer: The above is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Consult with your doctor regarding any medications you take.

Author Resource:-

Alester Brown is a certified immunotherapist. She advises people on personalized home allergy and skin treatment at home. You can find her thoughts at allergy care blog.