Hi there. Some medications can have side effects that cause physical or mental impairment, such as dizziness or drowsiness. This may impact your ability to work, especially if your job requires a high level of concentration or if you work in a hazardous environment.

Whether you can work whilst under the influence of certain medication will depend on the rules and policies of your workplace. Most employers have strict occupational health and safety (OH&S) rules that are designed to ensure a safe workplace for all employees. Under your employment contract, you would most likely be required to comply with any internal OH&S policies of your workplace, including restrictions on working whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol. More information about safe workplaces can be found at www.safework.nsw.gov.au.

You should first speak to your doctor about the side effects of your medication and get his or her advice on whether it will impact your ability to work. You should then speak to your employer about your OH&S obligations and whether you can still work whilst taking your prescribed pain medication.