July 17, 2013 - The FAA and the general aviation
industry have compiled data on over-the-counter
medications (OTCs) and its effects on pilots.
The report is stunning to say the least, the
report indicates that 12 percent of fatal
general aviation crashes in the past decade were
due in part to the use of over-the-counter
medications.
Over the Counter medications (OTCs) are legal,
nonprescription substances taken for the relief
of discomforting symptoms that may be in
capsule, tablet, powder or liquid form. This
could also include topical agents as well as
agents that use a dermal delivery system (i.e.
patch).
Some of the more common over the counter (OTC)
medications would include - Analgesics: This
would include Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAID) such as Ibuprofen, aspirin, and
acetaminophen. Cold and flu medications fall
into categories such as antihistamines,
decongestants, and cough preparations. Bowel, or
gastrointestinal agents such as laxatives and
anti-diarrheals. Stimulants such as caffeine,
dietary supplements, including agents such as
amino acids, vitamins, herbal and
mineral/vitamin combinations. All of these can
impair a pilot's ability to safely fly an
aircraft.
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