Key facts
- A study found quetiapine, often used for sleep, impairs driving ability.
- Participants taking quetiapine had triple the attention lapses and swerved more in a driving simulator.
- Roughly one in four participants did not recognize their level of impairment.
- Researchers recommend avoiding driving for at least 9.5 hours after taking quetiapine.
- The study involved 15 adults with obstructive sleep apnea.
A small randomized controlled trial conducted by researchers at Flinders University in Australia found that quetiapine, a widely prescribed antipsychotic often used off-label for sleep issues, significantly impairs driving ability the morning after use. The study involved 15 adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who took either 50mg of quetiapine or a placebo before bed on separate nights. Participants taking quetiapine experienced increased total sleep time and reduced wakefulness, with a decrease in apnea-related events. However, driving simulator tests revealed more than triple the attention lapses and more lane swerving compared to the placebo group. Notably, about one in four participants did not recognize their level of impairment, despite feeling sleepier. Researchers recommend avoiding driving or safety-critical tasks for at least 9.5 hours after taking quetiapine. Experts also highlighted the need for further investigation into sex differences in drug metabolism and potential impacts on older adults, emphasizing the importance of discussing treatment risks and benefits with healthcare providers.