Drug and Alcohol Testing Q&A - 2006

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Personal physician's responsibility to drug-using pilot

From: Dr. X
Password: orange
Date: 09 Oct 2006
Time: 09:23:08 -0700
Remote Name: 210.4.166.130

Comments

An airline pilot subject to DOT testing who has valid prescriptions for Lortab, Xanax & Ambien states that she uses the medications occasionally to treat lower back pain and insomnia caused by jet lag. This pilot states that she never uses the medication within 48 hours of assuming flight duties. This pilot states that since the use of each is not regular -- maximum of 20 to 30 dosages per year -- she does not report it on her FAA medical certification. This pilot is concerned that use of said medication may cause a positive random DOT test. This pilot is concerned that though she is able to produce a valid prescription should a positive test be returned, the MRO would be compelled to inform her company and or the FAA. As her family physician what should I tell her and should I prescribe said medication? I am neither an MRO nor an FAA Medical Examiner. Thank you for a very informative web site.