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Can you take Xanax while driving?

My doctor has prescribed me Xanax but I have to drive quite often. Will I get in trouble if I get pulled over while I still have the medication in my system?

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Tiffany Leung · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
This is a tricky situation! To avoid any trouble, we suggest that you don’t drive right after taking Xanax. That said, In some states (like California) you can lawfully drive after taking the drug if you have a legal prescription.
Although you can drive with prescription drugs, it is unsafe to do so if it impairs your driving. It’s a good indicator to wait before driving if you feel any of the following symptoms:
  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Unsteadiness when standing
  • Sluggish reaction or impaired concentration
  • Processing information slower
  • Headache
  • Heart palpitations
  • Nausea
You should consult your doctor to see if your dosage is safe for driving and if you need to wait before you operate a vehicle. If you get pulled over by a police officer and are suspected of driving under the influence, you can be charged—especially if your driving has caused danger to surrounding motorists.
You don’t want to get charged with driving under the influence since this will stay on your record and cause your
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