Anyone taken beta blockers for driving test??

Question

I have been prescribed propanolol (beta blockers) for my driving test in a few weeks. . . how long do they take to take effect eg. when should i take them if my driving test is at 11:41?

Thanx =] x x

Answer 1

Beta blockers such as propanolol have been "prescribed" to overcome performance anxiety or stage fright. It affects the response of the brain so that it will supposedly help you stay calm and not be nervous about a forthcoming event, which in your case is driving.

It is best to try and take it beforehand to check its effect on your body. You can also check on how fast it acts on your body. You wouldn't want to go on your driving exam looking drugged, right?

Answer 2

You seem to be upset by my original answer well why are you asking if you are so sure in the first place !!! If your GP says they are okay I just think you are taking a risk with some quite strong medication, especially as you will be driving I know they are not sedatives but they can and do make you feel light headed when first taking them as they lower blood pressure!

Has your G.P prescribed them they are quite a strong medication, I take them for high blood pressure.  They do slow the heart rate and Ive been told that snooker players use them to help concentration.  Be careful though, if you really do need them take them a couple of days before test so as your body adjusts before the big day.  If your doc has not prescribed and you've been given them by a friend I would be tempted not to take them.  Anyway good luck with your test and happy driving!!!

Answer 3

take them the day before and on the morning ,about 8 am , of yur driving test. they work for me. good luck

Answer 4

Fail.  In the Highway Code, you may remember "You must not drive under the influence or alcohol, or any other drug", or words to such effect.  If you think you need a sedative to help you drive, please stay off the roads when I use them!  You either can drive, or you can't.  You should have been not only having lessons, but been added as a named-driver to a family-members' car insurance, and should have been doing all the driving you can, until the novelty wears off, at all times of the day, short trips, long trips, country lanes, dual carriageways, day and night.  

     Learning to drive is about exactly that - LEARNING to drive.  Take your time, don't rush it.  I had 27,000 miles in 18 months as a learner.  I have now had 25 years of driving, have a clean licence, and have had no accidents.  

Answer 5

It seems a bit extreme to prescribe beta blockers for nervousness. Anyway, I would take them a while beforehand, to give you time to adjust and in case you react badly.