$Unique_ID{BRK02402}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is It Safe To Use Medicines with No Apparent Side Effects and Drive?}
$Subject{dilantin automobile drug medicines hydantoin epilepsy seizures
convulsions phenytoin dizzy lightheaded drowsy alert drive medicine drugs
pharmaceutical pharmaceuticals behavior behaviors lifestyle lifestyles car
cars automobiles alertness driving dizziness lightheadedness}
$Volume{R-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is It Safe To Use Medicines with No Apparent Side Effects and Drive?


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QUESTION:  I am presently taking four 100 mg capsules daily of Dilantin with
no apparent side effects.  Is it safe for me to operate an automobile while
taking this drug?  I am 80 years of age, white male, and neither I nor my
family have had any history of seizures.  Thank you for any advice you care to
give.

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ANSWER:  Your question poses a number of issues that bear consideration.  To
be sure, the principle use of Dilantin, as well as other medicines of the
Hydantoin family, is to control medical conditions (such as epilepsy) that
produce seizures and convulsions.  Dilantin (phenytoin) may also be used in
certain other situations, such as pain in tic douloureux, and contractions in
over excitable states in some muscle disease, as well as others.  That means
that there is probably a good reason for your prescription, although you seem
to be unaware of the rationale and have no history of seizures or convulsions.
Now to driving.  The best advice I can offer is contained in the publication
of the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) "Advice for the Patient"
which offers the following warning.  "This medicine may cause some people to
become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy or less alert than they are normally.  After
you have taken this medicine for a while, this effect may not be so
bothersome.  However, make sure you know how you react to this medicine before
you drive, use machines, or do other jobs that could be dangerous if you are
not alert."  If you have had no such reaction, and are currently taking the
medication without these undesirable side effects, it is most probably safe
for you to drive from the point of view of medication side effects.
     I think there is another view point to be considered in determining
driving safety for you and other readers who are rich in years.  That is the
condition of your sight and hearing, as well as your reaction times and muscle
strength.  I have no doubt that many individuals of 80 years young are still
more than capable of driving in a safe and competent manner, but can not in
good conscience, make that recommendation for all.  Once again yours is a
question with different answers for different folks, and one which should be
decided in consultation with your own doctor.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.