| Generally Safe to Fly (GO) | Avoid (NO GO) |
|---|---|
|
• Coricidin (allowed if it does not contain chlorpheniramine) • guaifenesin (found in Mucinex and Robitussin) • dextromethorphan (Delsym) Also in Dayquil, and Mucinex Fast-Max Severe Congestion and Cough. |
• Most "night-time" or "PM" medications contain a sedating antihistamine • Coricidin HBP cough & cold (contains chlorpheniramine) • Nyquil (contains doxylamine) |
Most cough medications are safe for flight. Use caution as combination products may contain sedating antihistamines. If the label states PM (for nighttime use) or DM (containing dextromethorphan), you should not fly while using these medications and for at least 5 dosage intervals after the last dose (see Dosage Interval Timetable).
CAUTION: The FAA warns that Sudafed-like medications can speed up your heart rate; therefore, use special caution if you have an underlying heart condition. Excessive caffeine can amplify this heart rate problem and has caused more than one pilot to end up in the emergency room for a racing heart rate (including staff from FlightPhysical.com).
Use common sense, go for "non-drowsy" products that you have experience with and seek medical care if you have persistent fever, chest pain, dizziness, palpitations, shortness or breath or are coughing up blood. The flu vaccine is encouraged, see our Vaccine page
Disclaimer: Neither the FAA nor FlightPhysical.com will attempt to publish all-inclusive references. Online guidance does not replace medical advice from your PCP and/or AME. Most doctors are not AMEs, and your regular Primary Care Provider (PCP) or specialist will know more about you and/or your specific medical condition than an AME, but is probably untrained or unfamiliar with aviation medicine. Follow 14 CFR 61.53 (duty to self-ground when ill) for your safety and that of your passengers. Don't fly after taking a new medication for the first time until 48 hours have past without side effects.
When in doubt - DO NOT FLY.
FAA AME Guide Dec 2025 version and FAA.gov