AME AME Pharmacology & Medication Policies 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which class of medications is generally disqualifying for FAA medical certification due to central nervous system effects?
- Opioid analgesics (Correct answer)
- ACE inhibitors
- Beta-blockers
- Statins
Correct answer: Opioid analgesics
Opioid analgesics are disqualifying because they cause sedation, impaired judgment, and slowed reaction times that compromise flight safety.
Question 2: How long must a pilot be off diphenhydramine (Benadryl) before exercising pilot privileges?
- 12 hours
- 24 hours
- 48 hours (Correct answer)
- 72 hours
Correct answer: 48 hours
The FAA recommends waiting at least 48 hours after taking diphenhydramine due to its prolonged sedating effects and potential 'hangover' impairment.
Question 3: Under the CACI program, which ADHD medication is specifically listed as disqualifying for all classes of FAA medical certification?
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- Amphetamine salts (Adderall)
- Atomoxetine (Strattera)
- Both methylphenidate and amphetamine salts (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Both methylphenidate and amphetamine salts
Both stimulant ADHD medications — methylphenidate and amphetamine salts — are disqualifying because they are Schedule II controlled substances with potential cardiovascular and CNS risks.
Question 4: What is the FAA's current policy allowing pilots to use certain SSRI antidepressants while holding a medical certificate?
- SSRIs are completely prohibited for all classes
- Selected SSRIs are allowed under Special Issuance after a stability period (Correct answer)
- All SSRIs are permitted without restriction
- SSRIs are allowed only for Third Class certificates
Correct answer: Selected SSRIs are allowed under Special Issuance after a stability period
The FAA allows four specific SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram) under Special Issuance after demonstrating medication stability for at least six months.
Question 5: Which over-the-counter analgesic is generally considered acceptable for pilot use when taken as directed and the pilot is symptom-free?
- Ibuprofen (Advil)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) (Correct answer)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Aspirin
Correct answer: Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is generally acceptable because it does not cause sedation or significantly impair cognitive or motor performance at standard doses.
Question 6: What is the FAA's stance on a pilot who uses marijuana in a state where it is recreationally legal?
- Permitted if used more than 8 hours before flight
- Permitted for Third Class certificate holders only
- Prohibited regardless of state law (Correct answer)
- Permitted if use is disclosed on Form 8500-8
Correct answer: Prohibited regardless of state law
Marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, and its use is disqualifying for FAA medical certification regardless of state legality.
AME AME Pharmacology & Medication Policies 1
Which class of medications is generally disqualifying for FAA medical certification due to central nervous system effects?