NPTC Safety Article- March 2025 -Allergies and Medicine Effects

Spring arrives this week, bringing with it a surge of seasonal allergies. Experts predict the 2025 allergy season could be more severe than previous years. As allergy season officially begins, it’s important to know that some over-the-counter allergy medications can significantly impair your ability to drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV).

According to researchers, of the 39 million Americans who suffer from hay fever and allergies, only 4.8 million take prescription medications. The remainder either go without treatment or use over-the-counter medications. While these medications can be effective, they often come with warnings about potential drowsiness and the need to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.

Researchers emphasize that even if you do not feel drowsy while taking allergy medications, you may still be impaired.