Fly Safe by Avoiding Adverse Drug Interactions
Study by the FAA can be found here.
According to the FAA, impairment from medication, particularly over-the-counter (OTC) medication, has been cited in a number of accidents in general aviation (GA). In 2011, a study from the FAA Civil Aerospace Medical Institute’s Toxicology Lab found that drugs/medications were found in 570 pilots (42%) from 1,353 total fatal pilots tested. Of the pilots with positive drug results, 90%, were flying under 14 CFR part 91.
Why This Is a Problem
Drugs and/or medical conditions can potentially compromise a pilot’s ability to control the aircraft and/or adversely affect their judgment and decision-making. When the FAA reviews an application for a medical certificate, they try to ensure that the risk from any medical condition and/or treatment could have adverse effects, or in any way cause unsafe flight. However, some airmen fail to disclose all conditions and/or medications to the aviation Medical Examiner (AME). This means the AME does not have the opportunity to suggest steps to enhance safety. Therefore, the undisclosed condition(s), the treatment, and/or medications could the airman, their passengers, or the public.
In 2015 the CDC did a study showing that 74% of doctor office visits result in drug therapy and 24% of the U.S. population has three or more prescriptions, and many medications can have unexpected interactions with other prescription medications as well as OTCs, supplements, and herbals. This is why it’s very important to disclose all medications you are taking to your AME.
What Are the Most Detected Medications in Fatal Accidents?
Many medications are potentially impairing, and one of the most common are antihistamines, commonly used for allergies, colds, or in sleep aids. According to an NTSB study, sedating antihistamines are the most commonly detected medications in fatal accidents. Although less common, other drugs can also cause sedation or cognitive impairment. These include some antidiarrheal drugs (often due to opioids), anti-seizure drugs, and some antidepressants. Furthermore, combinations of medications with certain foods or supplements can sometimes cause adverse side effects.
We suggest you work with both your primary care doctor and your AME when considering the use of these and other medications.
Where Can You Get More Information?
Begin by downloading this full report by the FAA. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires standard labeling for all OTC medications which will include the active ingredients, directions for use, and highlight any potential side effects like drowsiness. You can get the FAA medications guide HERE.
The FAA has also done a video, which you can watch below.
