© Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Patient and Family Education Committee. 7/2022 Page 1 of 1 Safe Driving During Cancer Treatment Why is safe driving important? At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we strive to provide you with the safest possible medical care. We also care about your safety before and after your visits. As a patient, you may find that you feel weaker and less alert than usual. Your medications, your illness, and your treatments may cause you to feel drowsy or weak and affect your ability to drive safely. Controlled substances and the law Controlled substances are drugs, such as opioids, that are controlled by law. Opioids are often prescribed to control pain. They include medicines such as: morphine sulfate, oxycodone, hydromorphone (Dilaudid®), and the fentanyl patch (Duragesic®). Your doctor may prescribe other controlled substances, such as anti-anxiety drugs like lorazepam (Ativan®). These medicines may increase the effects of alcohol. Massachusetts and New Hampshire laws do not allow driving while under the influence of controlled substances, even with a doctor’s prescription. Therefore, you should have another person drive you. (If you live in a different state, please check the state laws.) In fact, during cancer treatment, it is always a good idea to have another person accompany you to your appointments, because you may not know how you are going to feel. Other concerns Alertness, good vision, finding the brake pedal quickly in an emergency, turning your head and neck to see traffic, and adjusting rearview and side mirrors are all required for safe driving. Illness, stress, tiredness, depression, anxiety, or side effects of medicine can affect your ability to react quickly and drive safely. Ask if any of the medicines you are taking can make you sleepy or confused. Talk to your cancer care team about your condition and your medicines before you drive. Other options for transportation If you can’t use public transit or a driving service, please call Social Services at 617-632-3301. For more information about safe driving • Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, Medical Affairs Bureau www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles • New Hampshire Bureau of Driver Licensing, 603-227-4020 www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/dmv Patients and families CAN help ensure safe care: Check your medications; Ask questions; and Notify your team of any concerns. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions. This document is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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