The use of psychoactive drugs and driving – a return to rationality
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The relationship between psychoactive drugs and the right to drive is complex and requires a nuanced assessment. Simplistic criminalization, influenced by political narratives and social stigma, ignores the legitimate medical context. Although these drugs can affect cognitive and motor functions, their impact varies depending on dosage, tolerance and use (therapeutic, recreational or abusive). Strict regulations can discourage appropriate treatment and amplify social inequities. Objective assessments of driving ability are recommended, instead of decisions based solely on the presence of the substance in the body. Policies should be based on scientific evidence, balancing road safety with access to essential treatments, through education and counseling. The overall objective was to outline a rational picture of the link between psychoactive medication and the right to drive; in this regard, we conducted a narrative review that included 83 articles. The selection was based on content analysis following the essential landmarks of the researched problem: medication classification, types of consumption, influencing the ability to drive, categories of patients with improvements in abilities in the presence of these treatments, social effects of public narratives, effects of incriminating norms, social responsibility of decision-makers and professionals, practical assessment of cognitive, motor and reaction abilities. The responsibility of politicians and health professionals is essential in developing evidence-based policies that promote road safety without compromising access to necessary treatments. A balanced approach, which includes public education and counseling, is essential to protect patients’ rights and ensure fair regulation.
Source: Medic ro
Author: Radu-Mihai Dumitrescu
Language: English
Topic: Traffic and Road Safety
Subfield: Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4412781854