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Banking on relaxants to clear driving tests

DUBAI — Several aspiring candidates seeking driving licences are taking medicines to ease their tension before appearing for their driving tests, Khaleej Times has learnt.

However, medical experts opine that relaxants induce drowsiness, and therefore, may be dangerous to consume before carrying out any kind of physical activity, especially driving.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, some candidates admitted taking medicines to relax before appearing for the driving test as they dread failure. “I was recommended a drug by a friend after he managed to clear a test after consuming the medicine. So I thought I would try it as well, but unfortunately it did not work for me,” said Anchit G. (name changed), who has failed the driving test for the third time. Anchit, however, admitted he did not seek a doctor’s opinion before taking the medication.

Likewise, Ali Mahmoud, who cleared the test in his second attempt said, “I was also asked to take a certain medicine by a friend to relax, and for me it worked.”

Not relaxed

Mahmoud said that he did indeed feel relaxed after taking the medicine, though he admitted that he should have consulted a doctor. “I took only a small dose, so I did not feel sleepy at all. I felt relaxed and cleared the test easily.” Mohammed Yakoob, who missed his test date and is waiting for another one, said the medicines had a negative impact on him. “I felt extremely tired after consuming the medicine, and was unable to take my test. I, too, was asked by a friend to try it out. But I don’t think I will do that again because it does not work for me,” he added.

Explained Sharjah-based physician Dr M. Sulaiman: “Relaxants are used to relax certain muscles in the body and relieve the stiffness, pain, and discomfort. However, these medicines cannot be an alternative to rest, exercise or physical therapy.”

He explained that the relaxants affected the central nervous system (CNS) to produce their muscle relaxant effects, and could only be obtained on a prescription. The doctor, however, said that relaxants could be acquired without a prescription and were easily available. “Relaxants are also contained in antihistamine drugs, including cough syrups, or medicines for colds, tranquillisers and even sleep-inducing medicine.

Talking about the side effects, Dr Sulaiman said that the medicine could cause blurred vision, drowsiness and even clumsiness in some people. He warned that taking such drugs before major physical activities such as driving could be a cause of concern as these symptoms could include lack of coordination and concentration and dizziness.

Officials from the licensing authority in Dubai said they were not aware of any incidents.

Personal decision

Ali Jassim, Director of Licensing Department at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said: “Consuming any medicine before taking a driving test or doing any other kind of work is a personal decision. It is up to the person who does it at his own will and discretion. But, we see no reasons for him/her to do so.”

Jassim refuted the claims that driving instructors were encouraging candidates to take medicines. “We have not heard of any such case. Those who conduct the test should not encourage trainees to consume sedatives, but in case of any report of any such incident, action will be taken against the instructor.

“Examiners are trained to carry out their duties and are prepared to deal with the trainees as per the situation requires,” he said. He also said that any trainee could submit suggestions or any kind of complaints to officers-in-charge at the station.