Anxiolytics’ Effects on the Actual Driving Performance of Patients and Healthy Volunteers in a Standardized Test

Authors:
  • JOJames F. O’hAnlon
    James F. O’hAnlon
  • AVAnnemiek Vermeeren
    Annemiek Vermeeren
  • MUMir M.C Uiterwijk
    Mir M.C Uiterwijk
  • LVLoe M.A. van Veggel
    Loe M.A. van Veggel
  • HSHenriëtte F. Swijgman
    Henriëtte F. Swijgman
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Abstract
Effects of benzodiazepine (diazepam, lorazepam) and benzodiazepine-like anxiolytics (alpidem, suriclone) and a 5-HT-3 antagonist (ondansetron) on actual driving performance were measured in three double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Subjects were healthy volunteers in two and anxious patients in the third. Treatments lasted for 8 days. Standardized testing occurred within the first full day and on the last day of treatment. No important differences existed between volunteers’ and patients’ baseline and/or placebo performances and both groups responded similarly to comparable drugs/doses. Benzodiazepine and benzodiazepine-like anxiolytics produced marked and pervasive driving impairment, which lasted throughout treatment; but ondansetron, none.