Study examines effects of different opioids on driving performance

(Wiley) Taking opioids for the treatment of pain has been associated with increased risks of crashing among drivers, but it is unknown whether this applies to all opioids or pertains to specific opioids only. A new British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology study found that the influence of single analgesic doses of methadone and buprenorphine -- two different opioids -- on driving performance was mild and below the impairment threshold of a blood alcohol concentration of 0.5 mg ml-1.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news