Driving under the influence doesn't just condemn behind-the-wheel alcohol consumption- many people are also pulled over for a DUI due to drug use. It is important to keep the highways safe from men and women who are impaired by narcotics. Still, sometimes an innocent illness can cost you a DUI charge. This happens when you are pulled over and tested for drug use, and read positive because of a prescription or over-the-counter drug. If you are groggy or sleepy because of your medications, then the police officer will consider you as "under the influence" as someone on alcohol. You may even be issued a DUI conviction.

There are many medications to watch out for. Aspirin has the same effect as 0.05% alcohol in your bloodstream. When taken while drinking alcohol, this can spike BAC levels to higher than the actual consumption. As well, patients who take Aspirin regularly, such as heart patients who are trying to prevent a second heart attack, may have an even high BAC from ingesting so much of this medication. It is important to monitor your intake of Aspirin. If you feel sleepy or tired from the drug, avoid driving.

Another medication that can have serious DUI consequences is the common pain reliever, Tylenol. This medicine, also known as acetaminophen, is not normally a threat to a DUI test unless it is abused. People who are addicted to Tylenol or commonly take large amounts of the medication may be at risk to a false DUI reading. Ibuprofen is another common drug that can have the same effect as 0.05% alcohol in your blood. When abused, the substance can be dangerous, cause mood swings, and even fatality. Excedrin, Naprosyn, and Orudis are all pain relievers and fever reducers that will have a 0.05 percent effect on your BAC if taken at the serving size. If the amount of medication is raised, this will cause your BAC to rise.

Dramamine is an anti-vertigo medicine that can reduce nausea and vomiting. While it can help to remedy discomfort, when taken with alcohol this medicine can cause excessive dizziness, drowsiness and depression. If you are taking Dramamine in conjunction with another medication, make sure that there is not a chemical reaction. Dramamine can often cause grogginess when used along with other antihistamines. Benadryl has similar effects in this regard. Sudafed is an amphetamine stimulant that can help ease discomfort and sinus issues, but may have a drowsiness effect. Robitussin is another over the counter medicine that can increase the impact of a drug or intoxicating drink when it is taken at the same time. High doses of Robitussin can mimic LSD and cause vomiting, impair judgment, create hallucinations, and more.

It is best to avoid driving after taking any of these medications, especially those that are known to cause drowsiness. Never take these medications at the same time as alcohol or drugs, because this will not only heighten your BAC content but may have serious side effects. Not all states will charge you with a DUI if you are driving under the influence of an over-the-counter medication, but it is still wise to stay off the road when taking these meds. For example, in Arizona the police do not make exceptions for those who were impaired by a prescription medication. They are still considered guilty, and have to serve a sentence for their crime. If you have been convicted of a DUI because you were driving after taking an over the counter drug, you should contact a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. This lawyer may be able to get you the representation you need to prove your innocence.