#Insomnia medications series#

The minimum required wait time after the last dose of a sleep aid is 5-times the maximum elimination half life. This wait time is based on the pharmacologic elimination half life of the drug (half life is the time it takes to clear half of the absorbed dose from the body). Pharmaceutical Considerations: Because of the potential for impairment, we require a minimum wait time between the last dose of a sleep aid and performing pilot duties.Aeromedical Decision Considerations: N/A.Daily/nightly use of sleep aids is not allowed regardless of the underlying cause or reason. Occasional or limited use of sleep aids, such as for circadian rhythm disruption in commercial air operations, is allowable for pilots. While sleep aids may be appropriate and effective for short term symptomatic relief, the primary concern should be the diagnosis, treatment, and resolution of the underlying condition before clearance for aviation duties. Examples may include primary sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, sleep apnea) or psychological disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression). Medical conditions that chronically interfere with sleep are disqualifying regardless of whether a sleep aid is used or not. (As examples, see the Food and Drug Administration drug safety communications on zolpidem and eszopiclone.) Medical History: Use of sleep aids is a potential risk to aviation safety due to effects of the sleep aid itself or the underlying reason/condition for using the sleep aid.Īll the currently available sleep aids, both prescription and over the counter, can cause impairment of mental processes and reaction times, even when the individual feels fully awake.Third-Class Airman Medical Certificate: 67.313(c).Second-Class Airman Medical Certificate: 67.213(c).First-Class Airman Medical Certificate: 67.113(c).* NOTE: The different formulations of zolpidem have different half-lives, thus different wait times. Doctors sometimes prescribe medications to help manage this sleep disorder. Zolpidem (for middle of the night awakening) Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is usually the first-line treatment for chronic insomnia. Required minimum waiting time after last dose before resuming pilot duties Pharmaceuticals (Therapeutic Medications) Recreational Flyers & Modeler Community-Based Organizations.Critical Infrastructure & Public Venues.Certificated Remote Pilots including Commercial Operators.But Quviviq may start to work slightly faster than Dayvigo and Belsomra. Legislation & Policies, Regulations & Guidance Sleep maintenance insomnia (trouble staying asleep).Data & Research Subnav: Data & Research 1.

#Insomnia medications series#

Airport Safety Information Video Series.Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) Program.Airport Coronavirus Response Grant Program.General Aviation & Recreational Aircraft.Vintage & Experimental Aircraft Program.Aviation Safety Draft Documents Open for Comment.