Yes, although rare, you can technically get a DUI for driving on Ozempic if it impairs your ability to drive safely.
While Ozempic is not a psychoactive or sedating drug, some users experience side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and blurred vision—all of which could potentially impair driving. If you or a loved one is facing charges, get connected with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer.
How DUI Laws Apply to Medications Like Ozempic
It is illegal to drive under the influence of any drug if it impairs your ability to drive safely. This includes prescription medications, even if taken exactly as prescribed.
So if Ozempic (or a side effect caused by it) renders you unable to operate a vehicle safely, you could technically face a DUI charge.
Common Side Effects That Could Impair Driving
While most people tolerate Ozempic well, the FDA label and patient information include several side effects that can affect driving:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue or low energy
- Nausea leading to distraction or reduced focus
- Blurred vision due to blood sugar fluctuations
- Hypoglycemia when taken with other diabetes medications
If any of these symptoms occur while you’re driving, a police officer may interpret them as signs of impairment, especially if you’re involved in an accident or pulled over for erratic driving.
Uncommon But Not Impossible
Getting a DUI for Ozempic use is not common. It lacks the mind-altering effects seen in drugs like alcohol, opioids, or sedatives.
However, if you’re visibly impaired or cause an accident while experiencing side effects, law enforcement could still make a case under existing DUI statutes.
This might involve:
- Field sobriety tests
- Officer observations of behavior
- Statements you make about medication use
- Medical records or blood work if the case proceeds to trial
Can You Be Convicted Without a Blood Test?
Yes. Since there’s no standard “impairment level” for Ozempic, DUI charges based on its use often rely heavily on officer testimony and physical evidence rather than blood toxicology reports.
This means a prosecutor might argue that the way you were driving, combined with your physical symptoms, proves you were too impaired to drive safely. Observations such as swerving, delayed responses, or failure to follow instructions during a field sobriety test can all be used as evidence.
In some cases, statements you make at the scene—like admitting to recent medication use—may also be used against you.
A Blood Test May Not Be Essential for Conviction
While a blood test can strengthen a case, it’s not essential for a conviction if other compelling indicators of impairment are present. That’s why it’s so important to be cautious and understand that even legal medications can carry legal risks behind the wheel.
How Do Prosecutors Prove Impairment from a Medication Like Ozempic?
To win a conviction, the prosecution must show that:
- You were driving a vehicle, and
- Your ability to drive safely was impaired by a drug or medication
If there’s no crash and no obvious signs of severe impairment, it may be difficult to meet that standard.
However, if you were driving erratically and admitted to taking Ozempic shortly before, the burden shifts to your defense attorney to show the medication didn’t impair your abilities.
Can You Use the Prescription as a Defense?
Having a prescription for Ozempic does not automatically protect you from a DUI charge. The law focuses on impairment, not legality. However, your attorney may use your prescription to show that:
- You were following medical advice
- You weren’t warned about side effects that could affect driving
- Your symptoms were unrelated to Ozempic (e.g., dehydration, illness, or unrelated fatigue)
These arguments can help reduce charges or dismiss them entirely.
How to Avoid a DUI on Ozempic
If you’re starting a new medication like Ozempic, it’s wise to:
- Avoid driving until you know how your body reacts
- Monitor for side effects, especially dizziness or fatigue
- Talk to your doctor about safe usage
- Avoid combining it with alcohol or other sedatives
Everyone reacts differently to medications, and your experience may vary based on numerous individual factors. Some people might notice no issues at all, while others could feel unexpected or subtle changes in alertness or focus.
Being cautious from the start can help you avoid legal trouble and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Get Connected With a DUI Lawyer if You Are Facing Charges
While it’s rare, you can be charged with a DUI for driving while impaired by Ozempic—especially if side effects like dizziness or blurred vision impact your driving.
If you’re facing a charge related to prescription medication, let us at Los Angeles DUI Attorney connect you with an experienced legal professional today to protect your rights and help you face your defense with confidence. Visit our FAQ page to learn more.
