Drivers endangered by misleading medicine labelling

The labelling of some over-the-counter medicines is inconsistent, inaccurate and could be a danger to drivers, according to research published by the Department for Transport today.

In the research undertaken by the Sleep Research Unit of Loughborough University, it was found that the British National Formulary's (BNF) recommended range of advisory labels warning of possible drowsiness are not always followed closely by manufacturers.

Some products' labels also give different drowsiness advice on the patient information leaflet and on the exterior packaging, often with the more substantial warning in the small print of the patient information leaflet, where it is less likely to be read. And label visibility is often inadequate and most require improvements.

The report calls for the introduction of a standard symbol, warning of drowsiness, and the use of a standard symbol on medication, warning of drowsiness, which is already present in some countries.

Road Safety Minister, David Jamieson said: "There are more than 100 over-the-counter medicines with a potential to cause drowsiness. To ensure that motorists drive can safely, it is vital that they are warned about the dangers of about drowsiness.

"Labelling must be clear and understandable to people and I understand that the Department of Health Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are examining the issue.

"Particularly in the hayfever season, people should check with their pharmacist if they are in doubt and pull over if they feel drowsy when driving."

The Department for Transport believes that fatigue may be responsible for up to one-in-10 accidents on motorways and up to one in 20 on other roads.

The department also said the public should be aware that it is an offence to drive when unfit to drive through drink or drugs (section 4, Road Traffic Act 1988). The law makes no distinction between impairment due to illegal drugs and impairment due to medicinal drugs, whether prescribed or purchased over-the-counter. The penalties are the same as for drink driving - disqualification for at least a year, a fine up to £5,000 and up to six months imprisonment.

(GMcG)