New OSA Driving Guidance from Loughborough University

Loughborough University’s Transport Safety Research Centre has released new guidance for clinicians supporting drivers with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). Driver sleepiness contributes to 15–20% of road crashes, and although CPAP treatment reduces risk, OSA patients still need sufficient sleep, typically 7–9 hours, to remain alert on the road.

The research provides the first OSA‑specific test of the widely recommended “caffeine nap”. Findings show that two cans of iced coffee followed by a 15‑minute nap can offer a temporary boost in alertness for treated OSA drivers after sleep restriction

This guidance supports clearer conversations about managing sleepiness, driving safety and CPAP expectations. Find out more about the research and guidance, including a printable patient poster and a 3‑minute video, in the full article HERE