Malaria Medications : Rules for Pilots

FAA Policies on Pharmaceuticals for Airmen

Apr 2014

Guidance is compiled and interpreted by professional pilots and physicians at FlightPhysical.com from the 2014 AME Guide, FAA and FDA web data (www.FAA.gov & www.FDA.gov), instructions specified in the Aeronautical Information Manual, Federal Air Surgeon Bulletins from 1999-2015, and 14 CFR Part 61 and Part 67 (the FARs).

Code of Federal Regulations for Airmen
- First-Class Airman Medical Certificate: 67.113(c)
- Second-Class Airman Medical Certificate: 67.213(c)
- Third-Class Airman Medical Certificate: 67.313(c)
Medical History - This medication is absolutely disqualifying for pilots and air traffic controllers (ATCSs). Mefloquine (Lariam) is associated with adverse neuropsychiatric
side-effects, even weeks after the drug is discontinued. Because of the association with adverse neuropsychiatric side-effects, even weeks after discontinuation, a pilot or ATCS who elects to use mefloquine for malaria prophylaxis or who contracts malaria and is treated with mefloquine will be disqualified for pilot/ATCS duties for the duration of use of mefloquine and for 4 weeks after the last dose. In this instance, the pilot or ATCS must contact the FAA or his/her Aviation Medical AME prior to returning to flight duties after use (Agency ATCSs must contact an agency flight surgeon).
Aeromedical Decision Considerations - N/A
Protocol - N/A
Pharmaceutical Considerations - For return to pilot or ATCS duties there must be no history of neurologic or psychiatric symptoms during and or after mefloquine use. Examples of symptoms related to mefloquine use include: dizziness or vertigo, tinnitus, and loss of balance; anxiety, paranoia, depression, restlessness or confusion, hallucinations and psychotic behavior.
- Use of mefloquine must be discontinued for at least 4 weeks prior to consideration and:
- The airman or contract tower ATCS must contact the FAA agency flight surgeon or their AME before resuming pilot or contract tower ATCS duties
- The agency ATCS must contact the agency flight surgeon for clearance determination prior to resuming safety sensitive duties.
- For return to pilot or ATCS duties there must be no history of neurologic or psychiatric symptoms during and or after mefloquine use.

Summary: This page reviewed the medical and legal aviation aspects of Malaria Medications compiled from recent FAA and FDA reports.

This page discussed Malaria Medications : Rules for Pilots

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