Parkinson’s medication and driving

For more information, visit the Parkinson’s UK website (last updated May 2023).

Parkinson’s drugs and excessive sleepiness

Some Parkinson’s drugs can make you very sleepy. Sometimes this happens suddenly and without warning. This may be more likely in people with advanced Parkinson’s who are taking multiple medications or are increasing their medication.

Although this can be worrying, taking Parkinson’s drugs shouldn’t automatically mean you’ll have to stop driving. But if you experience any sudden or excessive daytime sleepiness, you shouldn’t drive and tell your GP, specialist, or Parkinson’s nurse.

Drugs and driving: the law

It is illegal in England and Wales to drive if you are unfit to do so because you are taking legal drugs. Legal drugs are prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Talk to your GP about driving.