Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Substances of Dependence/Abuse (Drugs and Alcohol)

As an Examiner you are required to be aware of the regulations and Agency policy and have a responsibility to inform airmen of the potential adverse effects of medications and to counsel airmen regarding their use. There are numerous conditions that require the chronic use of medications that do not compromise aviation safety and, therefore, are permissible. Airmen who develop short-term, self-limited illnesses are best advised to avoid performing aviation duties while medications are used.

Aeromedical decision-making guidance includes an analysis of the underlying disease or condition and treatment. The underlying disease has an equal and often greater influence upon the determination of aeromedical certification.

See Substances of Dependence/Abuse to access Aerospace Medical Disposition requirements regarding specific medications or classes of pharmaceutical preparations.