Traffic accidents and minor tranquilizers: a review

Abstract

Minor tranquilizers, including the benzodiazepines, have been found to impair driving skills such as hand-eye coordination and reaction time. Several studies have also demonstrated an association between minor tranquilizer use and traffic accidents; however, the association may be due entirely to more frequent alcohol use or to the underlying anxiety found in users of minor tranquilizers. Whichever the case, patients taking minor tranquilizers do have higher accident rates. It is recommended that physicians emphasize the possible risks of driving while using these medicines, particularly if used with alcohol.