SAFE USE OF MEDICATION BY AIRCREW

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the issues involved in making the decision whether a drug can be used safely. Hypnotics and antihistamines are examples of the two main problems which arise. In the case of antihistamines the question is whether the airline pilot can work safely under the influence of a drug. In the case of hypnotics the question is how long after ingestion of a drug which is known to impair performance would it be safe to fly. This paper indicates the approach which is currently used in the U.K. to ensure the safe use of drugs by aircrew.