NHS driving warning issued to millions of people

NHS driving warning issued to millions of people People are urged to be on alert and to stay safe The NHS has urged people on certain medications to take extra precautions, especially if you are set to get behind the wheel and drive. According to the Met Office, about 10 million people in England suffer from hay fever, an allergic reaction to pollen. Symptoms often get worse for people during the summer months of June and July. Antihistamines are commonly taken to manage this. However, there are antihistamines that can make you feel sleepy. With this in mind, the NHS advises people to be careful when taking them, as doing so while sleepy could impair their ability to drive safely. Listing medications that could make you drowsy, it advises people to be cautious of things like chlorphenamine (Piriton), cinnarizine, diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine and promethazine. Non-drowsy antihistamines that may not make you feel as sleepy could include acrivastine, cetirizine, fexofenadine and loratadine. What type of antihistamine should I take? Antihistamines can be taken in several forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, syrups, creams, lotions, gels, eye drops, and nasal sprays. The NHS says there’s little evidence that any one antihistamine works better than another. People react differently, so you may need to try a few to find what works best for you It advises: "Non-drowsy antihistamines are generally the best option, as they're less likely to make you feel sleepy. But types that make you feel sleepy may be better if your symptoms stop you sleeping. "Ask a pharmacist for advice if you're unsure which medicine to try as not all antihistamines are suitable for everyone." NHS 'do not' warning If you take antihistamines or any medicine that may cause drowsines, the NHS advises you not to drive. For example, linking to Chlorphenamine (Piriton), it notes that this medication "is an antihistamine medicine that relieves the symptoms of allergies. "It's known as a drowsy (sedating) antihistamine. This means that it's likely to make you feel more sleepy than some other antihistamines." Listing key facts about the medication, it cautions: "Do not drive a car or ride a bike if it makes you sleepy or dizzy or you get blurred vision." It also urges: "Do not drink alcohol while you're taking chlorphenamine. Alcohol may make you feel sick or more sleepy." It's not the only medication that could have this effect. The NHS also lists Diphenhydramine as an antihistamine medicine "known as a drowsy (sedating) antihistamine". It explains: "Common side effects include feeling sleepy, dizzy or unsteady on your feet. You may also have difficulty concentrating and have a dry mouth. Do not drive or ride a bike if it makes you feel sleepy or dizzy. "Do not drink alcohol while taking diphenhydramine. Alcohol increases the risk of side effects." Urging people to be careful, you can read a list of medications and their side effects via the NHS website here. Everyone reacts differently to medication. Always consult your doctor for advice or if you are worried.