Muscle relaxants. Can I take them short term?
 

Ok so here's the story. I hurt a muscle in my back kickboxing and it's being reluctant to heal. It's in no way interfering with my flying duties but it does hurt a bit. Went to the doc (personal doc not an AME) and was prescribed a buttload of ibuprofen and Flexeril, a muscle relaxant to be taken for a week. I haven't filled the prescription on the Flexeril yet as I am worried about whether it will be an issue or not.

1) I know Flexeril and other muscle relaxants are not allowed by the FAA. What does this practically mean? I know I cant fly while taking it but can i resume flying as soon as I'm off it?

2) Am i required to notify the FAA or my AME or anyone if I take it and stop flying for a week?

3) Is this going to cause problems on my medical (Coming up in a month) If I take this medicaiton?

I'm woefully clueless about how this kinda thing works and just want to heal up my back muscle without hindering my flight training. Any advice/answers would be GREATLY appreciated! :confused:

1) I think there's like a 48 hour window before you can fly again AFTER you have stopped taking the drug.

2) To assure FAA medical eligibility call 800-699-4457 for a free consultation - taken from leftseat dot com

3) You should have no problems if you're done taking the drugs by then, however if your back is still giving you problems, the AME might notice...

you have to report the Drs visit and the drugs on your next medical form .... no way around that unless you want to risk lying....

The doctor's visit has to be reported as well as the condition being treated. Medications have to be reported if you are CURRENTLY taking them. Refer to the FAA's guide for Medical Examiners p.28.

While taking disqualifying medications for the treatment of an acute illness, the airman must not exercise the privileges of his medical unless cleared to do so by the FAA.

My interpretation is that you do not need to report the medication unless you are currently taking it or routinely need it for a chronic condition. While you are on the muscle relaxant, you should refrain from flying. To be certain, your AME should be able to answer that question for you before you start the med.

I hope that helps.

AT

Thanks for the replies! From what I see on the 8500 form I'm only required to report medications currently taken, and I'll be off it by then. I'll already have to report the doctors visit so I may as well go ahead and take the meds and sit on the ground for 9 days right? I certainly don't wanna lie about anything! I'm just trying to avoid any unnecessary hassle.

correct . . . take med & stop flying. Stop med and resume flying 2 days later. INHO advil works just as well and causes less reporting paperwork

Don't take them and play football!! :D

Muscle Relaxant - YouTube