There are many conditions that require medication, and some medication can have side effects that could impact on your ability to perform certain tasks. Although this information contains a brief overview on possible side effects of medications you should always speak to your general practitioner or health professional for advice on medication including any side effects.
Disclosure and privacy
You are only required to tell your employer about any medication you are taking if it will impact on your job performance or safety on the job.
Questions about medication from your employer must be phrased in terms of how the medication or side effects will affect your ability to perform the inherent requirements of the job.
For example, an employer can ask you:
'Are you taking any medication which might impact on your ability to perform the job?'
Remember that it is not essential for you to disclose specific medical or personal information about a disability or medication. If you do disclose this information to your employer, they are required by law to respect your right to privacy. Failing to protect confidential personal information in relation to your disability may involve or lead to discrimination in some circumstances.
For more information on your rights and responsibilities regarding disclosure and privacy, visit:
Possible side effects of medication
There are many different types of medication and many possible side effects. Each person may react differently to the same type of medication, so it is not possible to predict every reaction every time.
Some common side effects include:
- drowsiness
- being less alert
- tiredness
- difficulty concentrating
- slurred or impaired speech
- mood swings
- tremors or shakes
- slowed reaction times
- decreased physical coordination.
If you are concerned about the possible side effects of your medication, discuss your concerns with your general practitioner or health professional.
Reasonable adjustments
If you advise your employer of any possible side effects of the medication you are taking, reasonable adjustments should be made to accommodate the side effects.
For example, some medication may make a person feel drowsy for a few hours after taking them, so extra precautions should be taken during that time, or alternatively they may be able to organise to start and finish work at a later time.
For more information on reasonable adjustments, including help that might be available to your employer when making reasonable adjustments, visit:
Administration of medication
Medication may be taken in tablet, capsule or liquid form, or may be injected.
Reasonable adjustments may be required so that you can administer your medication. Adjustments can include the provision of privacy and regular breaks to administer medication (particularly medication requiring injections), or regular breaks if you need to eat at regular intervals or drink large amounts of fluid.