Can airline pilots take NyQuil?


Can airline pilots take NyQuil? You may feel better on the medication, but you'll fly worse. Although NyQuil is approved per the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association database of FAA approved/disallowed medications, I've learned to give myself at least a week of nondosing before going back into the cockpit.


Can pilots take Sudafed and fly?

As an example, a pilot using Sudafed to help control mild nasal congestion should clearly not continue flying while using it if that pilot develops an adverse reaction such as dizziness, headaches, or irregular heartbeats.


What medications are banned by FAA for pilots?

Opiates, such as Morphine, Codeine, Lortab, Percodan, Oxycontin. Muscle relaxants, such as Soma, Sonata, Flexeril. Anicholinergics, such as Levsin, Bnetyl, Transderm Scop. Sedating antihistamines, such as Benadryl, Chlorpheniramine, Zyrtec.


Can pilots take cold medicine?

The FAA bans the use of any sedating antihistamine (see the FAA's “do not fly” list). That doesn't necessarily mean you can't take the medication for acute symptoms such as a cold or flu, but the drug should be thoroughly flushed out of your system prior to flying again.


Can airline pilots take Dayquil?

Most medications not labeled “PM” are usually safe for flight, but there are some exceptions. It's important to look at all the active ingredients. Anything that contains dextro-methorphan (that includes Dayquil®) is not allowed. Another common ailment is gastrointestinal illness.


How can airlines make sure pilots do not fall asleep?

Pilots need to stay awake and alert at all times so they can be ready to take control of the airplane at a moment's notice. Some of the ways pilots stay awake include drinking caffeine, getting plenty of rest the day/night before, staying busy, keeping the cockpit warm and the lights bright.


Does Benadryl help with flying?

Benadryl - Many parents ask about giving Benadryl to their child before a flight to promote rest and sleep. This is not necessary. Benadryl does not necessarily cause a child to sleep or sit quietly. In fact, it may cause a child to be hyper and/or irritable.