lamictal

[CaptBud330]

Does anyone know if the medication Lamictal is disqualifying?

 

[erj-145mech]

Does anyone know if the medication Lamictal is disqualifying?

Trade NameFAA AllowedDrug ClassificationTreatment ForFAA Allowal Based OnWeb LinkLamictal
(lamotrigine)NOT
ALLOWED antiepileptic seizure disorder

 

[JCJ]

Lamictal is prescribed for epilepsy or bipolar disorder. Both of those conditions are disqualifying as well.

 

[stuttle]

Always? What about a note from a qualified psychiatrist saying that my bipolar is stabilized by lamictal?

By that I mean that I have excelled in a job for years, carried on a normal life, have not had a depressive episode in years (never had a manic one), and so on? I know this is probably a question for a doc, but if anyone has had experience I'd appreciate a response.

 

[erj-145mech]

If you are currently taking lamictal, you are not elligible to receive an FAA medical certificate. It is not an approved medication.

But as always, discuss this with your AME to get the current information.

 

[stuttle]

Quite frustrating that being responsible, getting a diagnosis, and taking care of myself prohibits me from flying. If I just ignored it all, and stayed 'sick,' I would be cleared!

Sorry, I'm new to this, and just can't get over it. I've been reading up on section 67 and also all the court cases. It sounds like a case like mine could go either way.

 

[MaxTorque]

There are some medical organizations that take the approach "How can we assist you in legally keeping your medical" rather than "How can we exclude you". I will have to dig up the link but if someone doesn't point it out I will find it and post it later today.
MT

 

[erj-145mech]

Bi-polar disorder is also a disqualifying disease, with or without and treatment.

 

[JCJ]

Bi-polar disorder is also a disqualifying disease, with or without and treatment.

Some conditions that are disqualifying can still, in some cases, be certified with a special issuance. Unfortunately, I think the FAA won't consider a waiver for bipolar disorder. I've never seen or heard of one.

 

[MaxTorque]

Virtual Flight Surgeons (http://www.aviationmedicine.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=home) have extensive experience with returning aviators to the cockpit. No one is served by pilots in the cockpit who are not medically qualified. But these folks can help those that can legitimately return to flying wade through the process.

MT