In Germany, driving under the influence of drugs is generally prohibited. Following partial legalization, special rules now apply to cannabis. Similar to the 0.5 per mille tolerance mark for alcohol, there is also a legal limit for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the intoxicating ingredient in the cannabis plant. This limit is 3.5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood. If this value is exceeded, driving safely is no longer sufficiently guaranteed. Pharmacists in North Rhine urgently warn against consuming cannabis while taking medication. “This combination can have a negative effect on your ability to drive,” explain Dr. Armin Hoffmann, President of the North Rhine Chamber of Pharmacists, and Thomas Preis, Chairman of the North Rhine Pharmacists Association.
“Smoking cannabis affects liver enzymes that can strengthen or weaken the effects of many drugs,” explains pharmacist Dr. Armin Hoffmann. The fact that some drugs can have a significant impact on safe participation in road traffic, even without the involvement of cannabis, shows just how risky such a mix can be.
Interactions with medications
This applies to both prescription drugs and those that are available in pharmacies without a prescription. These include sleeping pills and tranquilizers, allergy tablets, but also some cough medicines and painkillers.
Cannabis can significantly change the effect of medication over a longer period of time. This is especially true if cannabis is consumed more than twice a week. “That is why not only chronically ill people should find out at their local pharmacy whether cannabis consumption can interact with the medication they are taking. Cannabis users who take medication they have bought themselves to treat minor illnesses should also seek comprehensive advice,” advises pharmacist Thomas Preis. This personal and qualified advice in the local pharmacy is an important building block for greater patient safety.
Limitation of concentration
“Even below the legal limit of THC, concentration and attention can be impaired, as well as reaction and decision-making times can be prolonged” – especially if certain medications are taken at the same time,” warns Hoffmann. The result could be a dangerous and hazardous journey.
Fines and driving bans
Anyone who intentionally or negligently drives a car with more than 3.5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood usually faces a fine of 500 euros and a one-month driving ban. For novice drivers and people under 21, there is an absolute ban on cannabis during the two-year driving license probation period.
Be careful when using mixed drugs
It is important to observe the regulations on so-called mixed consumption. There is a strict ban on drinking alcohol after consuming cannabis. Anyone who does not comply with this rule will be fined 1,000 euros and risk a driving ban for one month.
Cannabis consumption can be detected for a long time
It takes a long time for THC to break down in the body. After a single use, people should ideally wait at least 24 hours before engaging in traffic again. THC can no longer be detected in the body even after a single use after about a month. Anyone who regularly consumes cannabis must even assume that THC will remain detectable in the body for several months. If, for example, an accident occurs during this period and the police order a blood sample, the person concerned must expect the corresponding consequences.
