Drivers will be
warned about the potential effects of medicines in a new THINK!
campaign launched by Road Safety Minister Paul Clark today.
One million leaflets will be distributed through 2,600 Boots
stores while medicine bags will be labelled with stickers
prompting drivers to check with their doctor or pharmacist that
they are safe to drive while taking their medicines.
This follows a major TV, radio and online campaign in August
2009 to target the irresponsible minority who drive while under
the influence of illegal drugs.
Paul Clark said:
"We have already run a hard-hitting campaign to tackle
those who drive after taking illegal drugs. But it is not just
illegal drugs which can affect your driving. Some medicines may
cause drowsiness and impair judgement, increasing the risk of an
accident.
"That is why we are raising awareness of the potential
effects of over-the-counter and prescription medicines on driving
ability with this new campaign and I am delighted that Boots UK is
helping us to get this message direct to their customers."
Paul Bennett, Boots Professional Standards Director and
Superintendent Pharmacist, said:
“It is vital that anyone taking medicine follows the instructions
properly and continues to take their course. However, people also
need to take into account the potential effects their medicine may
have on their ability to drive.”
“Regulations already require that a warning is included in the
patient information of every medicine which may have such an
effect. However, we hope that providing additional information
when people collect medicines will prompt them to find out more
from their doctor or pharmacist.”
Medicines are important in the treatment and prevention of
illnesses. Those taking medicine to treat an illness should follow
the instructions properly and continue to take it as directed to
maintain their health. Anyone with questions about their medicines
should contact a health professional for advice.
If this campaign is successful it will then be rolled out to
other pharmacies nationwide.
For more information about the THINK! campaign please visit: www.dft.gov.uk/think/drugdrive.
Notes to Editors
1. Presence of medicine in the body does not mean that the driver
is impaired. However, studies in the UK suggest that the presence
of medicines in drivers killed in road accidents is around 6%
(Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1997).
2. Fitness to drive: a guide for health professionals
can be downloaded at: www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/roadsafety/drs/fitnesstodrive
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