Antihistamines are more dangerous

for driving than alcohol

According to researchers from the University of Iowa, USA, antihistamines, a medication easily obtained at pharmacies for colds and allergies, can cause greater harm in driving than being under the influence of alcohol.

The researchers studied the reaction of a group of people allergic to pollen who were administered diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), alcohol, and a placebo. It was found that the reaction of the subjects, monitored using a driving simulator at the University of Iowa, was less effective after taking diphenhydramine, and even less efficient than after being intoxicated.

Dr. Weiler added that participants were also unable to perceive their own ineffectiveness while driving based on their state of drowsiness. The research studied 40 licensed drivers, aged between 25 and 44, allergic to pollen and who had taken antihistamines as treatment.

The researchers assessed the participants’ ability to follow a car that changed speed frequently and illogically. Subjects under the influence of alcohol performed well in this test, but they got too close to the car and exhibited less control of the steering.

Weiler noted that previous studies had already demonstrated that intoxicated drivers could perform correctly on certain tests, although they struggled with other vital driving tests.

SOURCES: “University of Iowa Study: The main group of antihistamines has a greater impact on drivers than alcohol,” University of Iowa College of Medicine, March 7, 2000. www.quiropractica1.com