Drugs
Prescription Drugs
- AOPA maintains a medication database of drugs
- Check the half-life of any drugs you are planning to take
- Many drugs have pronounced affects when at altitude and are not allowed for flight
Regulations
61.53 prohibits acting as pilot-in-command or in any other capacity as a required pilot flight crewmember, while that person:
- Knows or has reason to know of any medical condition that would make the person unable to meet the requirement for the medical certificate necessary for the pilot operation, or
- Is taking medication or receiving other treatment for a medical condition that results in the person being unable to meet the requirements for the medical certificate necessary for the pilot operation.
Substances to Avoid
- Nicotine: Impaired night vision, CO poisioning
- Amphetamines: Impaired vision, impaired judgement
- Caffeine: Impaired judgement, dehydration, headaches
- Antacids: Release CO2 at altitude
- Antihistamines: Drowsiness, dizziness
- Aspirin: Contribute to hypoxia