Does the FAA allow you to take Risperdal? I want to become a commercial pilot, and I was wondering if I could.

Question

I take Risperdal 3mg and I want to become a commercial pilot for FedEx or UPS but I dont know of the FAA will allow someone with the diagnosis of "psychosis" to fly. I dont exhibit crazy behavior; I think the Dr. just made this diagosis to get money from my insurance company. Also, is it possible to reverse a psychiatrist's diagosis? If I go to another Dr. and he says I'm ok, could he erase my former diagosis and let my fly? Please help me. I really want to become a pilot. Thanks.

Answer 1

Try www.virtualflightsurgeon.com and ask your question to the experts who know.

You can try www.faa.gov and search for the approved drug list, but you have some other problems with the old diagnosis.

Answer 2

You could try to get another opinion, but even if its not a good one, hope is not lost. I'm assuming you are in the US (since you want to fly for UPS or FedEx). Psychosis is on the problem list - however, it is not an instant disqualification. The difference is that you will be evaluated and the FAA will have to make the decision.

That said, I wouldn't worry too much about it, since you still have to go through the right of passage, getting your certificates and and earning your hours. By then, the condition might subside :)

Answer 3

The simple answer to your question is "NO".  The full answer is more complicated.

Since you have a medical diagnosis of psychosis, it is part of your medical history.  A designated Aviation Medical Examiner cannot issue you a medical certificate to fly.  There is a such thing as a special issuance medical certificate.  These are reviewed on a case-by-case basis at a federal office in Oklahoma City.  It sounds like this is probably the hoop you'll have to jump through to have a shot at flying.  Don't lie about it on a medical application - that's a federal offense that could land you in prison.  Talk to an Aviation Medical Examiner about the steps to take.  I know you can't fly on that medication.  You can't "erase" a diagnosis, but you can certainly get a second opinion, which is probably your best option for having a shot at a medical certificate.

If you do get a medical certificate, it may be limited (at least initially) to third class, meaning private flying only.  I'm not a doctor, but I'd guess that it's possible that if you're asymptomatic (clear psychological report) without medication for several years, you *might* be eligible for a medical certificate that will allow you to fly commercially.  I can't make any promise other than it will be a somewhat tedious process.  Good luck!

Answer 4

If you answer "yes" to any of the screening questions on the FAA medical exam form, your application will be denied.

There is a very slim chance you can receive medical certification if you admit to using an anti-psychotic medicine.

I'm sorry, but I would keep looking for another career. Or lie on the medical exam form.

You can fly small, light aircraft without a medical certificate, and gliders.