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Old 06-20-2009 | 03:46 PM
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rickair7777
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From: Engines Turn or People Swim
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Whether you are actually bipolar or not, this diagnosis and medication will create a huge problem with the FAA.

First off, you are grounded because of the medication. I hope you have not been flying while taking it, since any pysch med is disqualifying. If the FAA ever finds out that you flew on such meds, you are toast.

If you flew with an instructor that would be OK, you don't need a medical for that. But if you soloed, that would be bad.

There is a six month waiting period after you stop taking pysch meds.

Your case is unusual, I would recommend paying an aviation medicine consultant for assistance BEFORE you talk to your AME. If you go to the AME first, it may complicate the resolution of this situation.

BTW, I don't know if bipolar disorder can be 100% cured so such a diagnosis might limit your professional flying prospects. Depression or anxiety on the other hand is usually curable, and once corrected will not prevent you from holding a first class medical.
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