AME Pharmacology & Medication Policies Flashcards
6 cards from real AME practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 AME Pharmacology & Medication Policies flashcards as text
Which thyroid replacement medication is generally acceptable for FAA medical certification when thyroid function is well-controlled?
Answer: Levothyroxine (Synthroid)
Levothyroxine is accepted under the CACI program when the pilot's TSH is stable and within normal range, indicating well-controlled hypothyroidism.
Which non-sedating antihistamine is generally acceptable for FAA medical purposes when treating allergies?
Answer: Loratadine (Claritin)
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine with minimal CNS sedation and is generally considered acceptable for use by pilots with no observed performance impairment.
Which statin medication used for hyperlipidemia is generally acceptable for FAA medical certification?
Answer: Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
Atorvastatin and most other statins are accepted under the CACI program because they have no CNS effects and a well-established cardiovascular safety profile.
What is the minimum wait time after a sedating medication dose before a pilot may act as pilot-in-command?
Answer: Until the sedating effects wear off plus an additional safety margin
The FAA's principle is that a pilot must wait until all sedating or impairing effects have resolved plus an additional safety margin, which varies by specific drug pharmacokinetics.
A pilot taking insulin for Type 1 diabetes wishes to fly commercially. What is the FAA's current position?
Answer: All classes are allowed under strict Special Issuance with CGMS monitoring
As of 2015, the FAA allows insulin-treated diabetes under Special Issuance for all three certificate classes, requiring continuous glucose monitoring and strict hypoglycemia protocols.
What must an AME advise when a pilot discloses recreational use of alcohol within 8 hours before a scheduled examination?
Answer: Defer the exam and reschedule to ensure no impairment during testing
The AME should defer the examination until sufficient time has passed, as FAA regulations prohibit acting as a crewmember within 8 hours of alcohol consumption and an accurate exam cannot be conducted.