May 31, 2023 — The FAA recently revised their published policy concerning psychiatric medications. Applicants utilizing one of four (4) Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) anti-depressants or one NDRI (Bupropian) may be considered if the applicant can demonstrate use of the medication for at least 6 months without adverse effects. Favorable consideration requires extensive testing under strict criteria and vetted medical sponsorship. The present FAA policy prohibits virtually all other psychotropic / mood ameliorating medications.
Pilots who take certain antidepressants – Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa or Lexapro (or generic SSRI equivalents) or Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL, and Zyban (Bupropion) may be considered after extensive testing and evidence of successful use without side effects for at least six (6) months.
The FAA may consider amnesty for pilots who have not previously reported their condition or treatment. Individuals who have been flying while taking SSRI’s or NDRI’s may be able to obtain amnesty for their previously unreported medication and condition.
Favorable FAA consideration requires extensive testing and the use of Aviation Medical Examiners with select credentials.
The initial presentation of any psychiatric / psychological issue requires an evaluation irrespective of medication use. This should be performed for the FAA by a private physician and reviewed confidentially by an expert to establish eligibility for FAA medical certification. This includes but is not limited to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Attention Deficit
- Psychosis
- Bipolar
- Personality Disorder
- Substance Dependence or Abuse and the use of any psychotropic medication.
FAA psychiatric evaluations must be accomplished in compliance with specific protocols. Before documentation is sent to the FAA it should be reviewed by an aeromedical document expert.
Authorization must be obtained from the Aeromedical Certification Division of the FAA in Oklahoma City. In most cases, Aviation Medical Examiners (AME’s) cannot approve certification and will defer your application to Oklahoma City FAA. The deferral process usually takes 4-6 months without our service.
We can help!
We have helped thousands of pilots with this process. We work directly with your physicians and the FAA to assure compliance with FAA medical protocols and to resolve complex aeromedical certification issues quickly.
Contact us at 405-787-0303 or via E-Mail to confidentially discuss the details of your case and to establish your eligibility for FAA medical certification.
There is no charge for an initial consultation.
Herbal Preparations | Fitness & Mental Health | FAA Statistics | SSRI’s & NDRI’s | Youth, Bipolar & ADD
