Dr. Daniel Richardson and Dr. Brett Martin have published an article titled, “Top 10 Most Commonly Prescribed Pharmaceuticals and Their Possible Negative Side Effects,” for the National Alliance newsletter of the Department of Transportation. The newsletter is for those health practitioners who certify truck drivers.

“Chiropractic physicians are among the health professionals who are able to certify truckers,” says Dr. Richardson. “For their benefit, and for others in the field, it is important that everyone understand commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals and the potential they may have to affect driver safety.”

The list serves as a handy reference that physicians can use to compare with drugs listed in an applicant’s medical history, or medications disclosed during an interview, apparent in a drug test, or listed on an application.

“Everyday medications can create symptoms that might interfere with driver safety, or may prove dangerous when combined with alcohol or other drugs,” says Dr. Brett Martin. “We want physicians to have the tools to educate truckers on how to mitigate the side effects, and to be able to determine when prescription drugs pose a risk of impairment.”

Dr. Daniel Richardson holds a PhD. in pharmacology and pharmocognosy. Dr. Brett Martin is a chiropractic physician and faculty member in National University’s Florida DC program. National University is a leader in including a strong pharmacology component as a part of its curriculum for the doctor of chiropractic degree.