Ok guys, serious question time.

While I will not delve into my personal problems on this forum, I will say that I've been going to my school's counciling center for anxiety and anger issues. So far this semester we've made little progress by just talking. She has suggested I talk with the school health center's phsychiatrist and discuss the prescription of an anxiety medication (most definently Xanax).

I will emphasize that I have never operated an aircraft or car while under the immediate effects of any mental or emotional "issues". People who know me and my situation say they have no problem with me flying, and two even happily come along as passengers on occasion.

Also, in talking with friends I was amazed at how common use of this medication was (though it can become a serious problem if abused). They also said it works VERY well with virtually no side effects (if taken in the prescribed amounts).

Ok, now the obvious issue: flying. I did some research on AOPA's medical site, and sure enough Xanax is not allowed by the FAA. HOWEVER, AOPA says the rules are geared toward medications that are taken continuously. Xanax is not taken continuously. Rather, unless otherwise prescribed, anti-anxiety medications are taken only "as needed" when the anxiety gets serious or when you anticipate a seriously anxious situation to occur in the very near future. It's a "there if you need it" medication. Theres no commitment to take it continuously. So theoretically, as long as I have none in my system when I'm flying and I feel fine, it should be legal.

What are your thoughts on the legality of this medication with regard to flying?

Also, for the future, how would this affect me with an airline *IF* I someday decide to become an airline pilot???

Thanks, guys. PLEASE, serious, non-mean-spirited answers only.