Local Experts Warn Against Driving While Medicated

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Thanks in large part to a large public service campaign by law enforcement agencies, drivers these days are more aware of the consequences of drinking and driving.

But what about driving while taking prescription drugs?

Lt. Stephen Jones of the New Jersey State Police wants people to know that the same laws that apply to drinking and driving also apply to taking prescription drugs.

"Driving under the influence really does encompass all kinds of drugs, both the illegal ones and the legal prescription ones," he says.  "We often find people who have taken a prescription drug -- say, a Xanax -- and they are unable to drive.  They are probably just as dangerous on the road as any other form of intoxication."

This is no surprise to emergency room physician  Dr. Nandita Sapre at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia.

"Xanax and similar drugs make you drowsy," she points out. "They decrease your reaction time. Your coordination isn't as good. All of that obviously is important while you are driving."

Both say you should think twice before getting behind the wheel.

Reported by Michelle Durham, KYW Newsradio 1060.