Neuropathic pain medications and their effect on the ability to drive.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Should patients be driving soon after starting the neuropathic pain medications? Assessing the effect of a single dose of amitriptyline or pregabalin on sleep, cognitive functioning and driving hazard perception in chronic neuropathic pain patients.
IRAS ID
172411
Contact name
Stephen Berry
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 2 months, 14 days
Research summary
It is well known that alcohol, illegal drugs and some prescription medications can have a detrimental effect on cognitive functioning and thus on a person's driving ability. Whilst there is currently no clear guidance for many medications, the British National Formulary recommends that driving should only be undertaken if competent to do so. This study will investigate the impact that starting one of two pain medications (Pregabalin and Amitriptyline) has on drowsiness, cognitive functioning and hazard perception. Three tools will be used to evaluate these aspects: a battery of non-invasive cognitive tests; a driving hazard perception test; and a subjective sleepiness questionnaire. Together, these will assess a number of functional parameters associated with driving. Adults who are newly prescribed these medications at the pain clinic at Royal Preston Hospital will be invited to participate in this study. Patients will be asked to attend the hospital to undertake the three tests as a baseline prior to starting the medication. They will then be asked to wait approximately 45 minutes - if prescribed Pregabalin - or return the next day - if prescribed Amitriptyline - before repeating the tests for a second time when the medication has reached its peak concentration. A comparative analysis of these results will highlight whether further research is needed to inform the development of specific recommendations for driving when taking the specified medications.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NW/0363
Date of REC Opinion
6 May 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion