Important Disclaimer
This is not an official FAA tool. Information may contain errors, omissions, or may not reflect the most current FAA guidance. Always consult the FAA AME Guide or a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner for definitive medication approval status. This database is provided for informational reference purposes only.
FAA Medication Lookup Database
Search medications to check their FAA approval status for pilots. Find out if your medication is approved, conditional, or prohibited before your next medical exam.
0 medications available — search or select a filter to view
Search for a Medication
Type a medication name above or select a category or status filter to browse the database.
Example: "metformin", "Zoloft", or filter by "Cardiovascular"
Medication Interaction Checker
Select multiple medications to check for potential FAA-relevant interactions
This is an informational tool only. It does not cover all possible drug interactions. Always consult the FAA AME Guide and your Aviation Medical Examiner for definitive guidance.
Can't Find Your Medication?
Our database covers 0+ medications, but the FAA guidance is always evolving. If your medication isn't listed, or you need help understanding how a prescription affects your medical certificate, our AME team is here to help.
We specialize in complex medication cases, Special Issuance evaluations, and HIMS program guidance.
FAA Medication Guides & Resources
Allergy Medications
FAA guidance on antihistamines, decongestants, and allergy treatments for pilots
Allowed Pilot Medications
FAA list of medications generally permitted for pilots, including OTC and prescription
Do Not Issue / Do Not Fly List
Complete FAA list of medications that ground pilots or prevent certificate issuance
Pharmaceuticals (Therapeutic Medications)
Comprehensive FAA reference for therapeutic medications and pilot certification
Sleep Aids & Sedatives
FAA policies on sleep medications, sedatives, and required wait times for pilots
AME Guide - Decision Considerations
How AMEs evaluate medications during FAA medical exams
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly while taking prescription medication?
It depends on the specific medication. The FAA categorizes medications as Approved (generally acceptable), Conditional (requires case-by-case review), or Not Approved (prohibited). Search our database above to check your specific medication. Always disclose all medications to your Aviation Medical Examiner during your exam.
What happens if my medication is listed as 'Conditional'?
Conditional medications require individual review by the FAA. Your AME will evaluate factors including the specific diagnosis, dosage, side effects, and your medical history. Many conditional medications can be approved through a Special Issuance authorization from the FAA's Aerospace Medical Certification Division (AMCD). Our team specializes in helping pilots navigate this process.
What are DNI and DNF medications?
DNI (Do Not Issue) means an AME cannot issue a medical certificate while you're taking that medication — you must discontinue it first. DNF (Do Not Fly) means you may hold a valid medical certificate, but cannot fly within a specific time window after taking the medication (for example, 36 hours after Benadryl).
Can pilots take antidepressants?
Yes, certain ones. The FAA has approved four SSRIs: fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), and escitalopram (Lexapro). As of 2024, venlafaxine (Effexor) has also been added as conditionally approved. Pilots on these medications can obtain certification through the SSRI pathway with proper documentation and a Special Issuance. A HIMS AME can guide you through this process.
How long do I need to wait after taking a medication before I can fly?
Wait times vary by medication. Some approved medications have no required wait, while others like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) require 36+ hours, and Cialis requires 36 hours. Search for your specific medication in our database to see its wait time. When in doubt, consult your AME.
My medication isn't in this database. What should I do?
This database covers the most commonly encountered medications, but FAA guidance covers many more. Check the FAA's official AME Guide resources linked below, or contact our AME team for personalized guidance. We can review your specific medication and medical situation to advise on your certification options.
Will my medical be denied if I use medical marijuana or CBD?
Yes. Despite state-level legalization, marijuana (including medical marijuana) remains a federally controlled substance and is absolutely prohibited by the FAA. CBD products are also problematic because many contain trace amounts of THC, and the FAA does not distinguish between marijuana and CBD-derived THC in drug testing. Using either can result in denial or revocation of your medical certificate.
Sources: This database is compiled from publicly available FAA guidance including the AME Guide, Pharmaceuticals (Therapeutic Medications) reference, and the DNI/DNF list.
Medication policies change periodically. If you have questions about a specific medication not listed here, or need guidance on your particular medical situation, please contact our team.