What antidepressants does the FAA allow?


What antidepressants does the FAA allow?

Can Pilots Take Antidepressants?
  • The SSRI pathway only allows consideration for pilots who take one of four SSRIS: fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), or sertraline (Zoloft). ...
  • Other antidepressants do not have a Special Issuance pathway.


Can you be a pilot with a history of depression UK?

In general, having a history of depression, anxiety, or any mental health condition does not necessarily disqualify someone from becoming a pilot. However, it will depend on the severity and duration of the condition, as well as the treatment that was received.


Can you be a pilot with bipolar depression?

However, certain medical conditions such as a psychosis, bipolar disorder and some types of personality disorder automatically disqualify a pilot from obtaining an FAA medical certificate.


What anxiety medications are approved by the FAA?

If you are an ATCS taking an SSRI - See the FAA ATCS How to Guide ( PDF ).
  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Citalopram (Celexa)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Bupropion (Wellbutrin) Extended Release (XL) or Sustained Release (SR) (Added 05/31/2023)


Can pilots be on ADHD meds?

Notably, pharmacological treatments for ADHD are not approved for flying because they can cause harmful effects on perceptual, motor, and cognitive functions and impair the recognition of fatigue.


Can the FAA see your mental health records?

But the mental health assessment is limited to the observations of the AME and the pilot's self-report on their medical questionnaire. If the FAA is not aware of concerns about a U.S. pilot's safety to fly, then they cannot mandate access to information.


What is the best anxiety medication for flying?

Pharmacological treatment These drugs are usually taken shortly before a flight. They include: Anti-anxiety medication, such as diazepam (Valium) or alprazolam (Xanax). Motion sickness medication, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine).


Do airlines check prescription pills?

Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.


Is anxiety a disqualifier for FAA medical?

Myth: I will lose my FAA medical if I seek help for any mental health situation. Truth: The FAA will be concerned if you are clinically diagnosed with a psychiatric condition (depressive disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, anxiety disorder or bipolar disorder) or a substance abuse disorder.


Can I fly with anxiety disorder?

Seeking a prescription to sedative medication and having them available in-flight can help you relax, even if you don't end up taking it. You should not try to cope alone with a panic disorder and related fear of flying. Even a couple sessions with a therapist can give you tools to make flying more comfortable.


What is best for flying anxiety?

Medications for flight anxiety, like SSRIs and SNRIs, can help manage symptoms in addition to other treatments, like exposure therapy and CBT. Some medications can also help you with upsetting and sudden symptoms, including episodes of panic. It's best to talk with a doctor about your options for flight anxiety.


How do you fly with severe anxiety?

For example, deep breathing or meditation during take-off, landing or turbulence can reduce your symptoms of anxiety. You can also learn to “talk back” to negative thoughts about flying when they arise.