What do fighter pilots use to stay awake?

Known colloquially as “go pills”, the use of amphetamines in cockpits has been controversial. While only offered in low doses (5mg) on flights ranging up to 30 hours, the United States Air Force has been looking at drugs like Modanifil, a treatment designed for narcoleptic patients, to keep aircrews alert.



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Pilots and air traffic controllers should not use Viagra within 8 hours of performing their (aviation) duties. Levitra, approved by the FDA in August 2003, has a similar profile to Viagra. The FAA initially allowed the use of Levitra in pilots/controllers.

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Some of the commonly-prescribed medications that individuals take for ADHD are Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Strattera, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine. All these medications are disqualifying for medical certification purposes!

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 Take Advantage of Naps
A 20-30-minute map is all you need to help fight pilot fatigue. A short burst of rest will help to improve alertness in your day. However, you want to be sure your nap isn't too long.

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Caffeine of course is a big one, whether it's coffee, tea or Coke, you'll find most pilots pounding one of them. Another common practice is simply keeping occupied. Reading, conversation, etc are all common ways to keep alert.

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Due to the risks to flight safety posed by ADHD, regulatory authorities worldwide consider ADHD a disqualifying condition for pilots. Unfortunately, pilots sometimes fail to disclose ADHD to their Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

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Does the FAA have a list of prescription and over-the-counter drugs that pilots can and cannot take while flying?
  • Tranquilizers, such as but not limited to Valium, Librium, Ativan.
  • Most antidepressants. ...
  • Opiates, such as Morphine, Codeine, Lortab, Percodan, Oxycontin.
  • Muscle relaxants, such as Soma, Sonata, Flexeril.


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Myth: If I am diagnosed with a mental health condition, I will lose my FAA medical forever! Truth: The FAA allows individuals with mental health conditions to apply for a special issuance medical certificate.

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