what medications can truck drivers take

This may include may include drugs, such as:

Full Answer

What drugs can’t truck drivers take?

You can’t take drugs like amphetamines, marijuana, or non-prescribed medications if you are a commercial driver, even when you aren’t on the job. Continue reading for a closer look at the prohibited drugs for truck drivers.

Can you drive a truck with a prescription drug license?

Other medications, prescriptions, and pharmaceutical drugs are a bit more complicated. As part of qualifying to be a truck driver, applicants must get a commercial drivers’ license (CDL). They must also pass a medical examination that certifies they don’t have conditions that will make them unsafe drivers.

What kind of drug tests do truck drivers have to take?

Department of Transportation requires truck drivers to take pre-employment drug tests that screen for the following substances: 1 Marijuana 2 Cocaine 3 Amphetamines (Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA, MDA) 4 Opioids (Codeine, Morphine, Heroin, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone) 5 Phencyclidine (PCP)

Can a driver be a commercial driver if they use drugs?

If a driver uses a drug identified in 21 CFR 1308.11 (391.42(b)(12)) or any other substance such as amphetamine, a narcotic, or any other habit forming drug, The driver is medically unqualified. There is an exception: the prescribing doctor can write that the driver is safe to be a commercial driver while taking the medication.

What medications can truck drivers not take?

The DOT Drug Testing PanelMarijuana.Cocaine.Amphetamines (Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA, MDA)Opioids (Codeine, Morphine, Heroin, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone)Phencyclidine (PCP)

Are truck drivers allowed to take antidepressants?

Drivers may not take medications that cause symptoms including drowsiness or difficulty concentrating. Drugs like Prozac, Xanax, Paxil, Imitrex, and can impair a driver and prevent safe operation of the vehicle.

Can truck drivers take anxiety medication?

Short-acting anxiolytics (anxiety relievers) such as Lunesta and Ambien are not disqualifying as long as the short-acting preparation is used, and the driver leaves enough time for the drug to clear his system before driving.

Can you be prescribed Adderall as a truck driver?

Truck Driver Prohibited Medication Use of any Schedule I drugs, amphetamines (such as Adderall), narcotics (drugs derived from poppy or coca), and any other habit-forming drug (i.e. drugs with a risk of addiction) disqualifies a truck driver.

Is Xanax DOT approved?

Other Medications If you are taking any of the following prescription medications, bring the actual prescription bottles with you to your DOT exam: Ambien (zolpidem), anxiolytics such as Alprazolam, lorazepam, Xanax, and pain medications such as hydrocodone/APAP, Vicodin, tramadol, or oxycodone.

Can you drive a commercial vehicle on Xanax?

Xanax is a drug that can be legally prescribed in California. If a person has a legal prescription for Xanax, it is lawful for him to drive after taking the drug, if taken as a medication. However, it is illegal under California Vehicle Code 23152(f) for a motorist to drive under the influence of drugs (DUID).

Can you pass a DOT physical on antidepressants?

If I take antidepressants can I still get a DOT medical card? Well it's not impossible, but what you will need to do is get a medical opinion letter from your treating physician that states: When you were diagnosed with the condition?

Can a truck driver take pain medication?

These rules include: A trucker is prohibited from taking a controlled substance or prescription drug unless it is prescribed by a licensed practitioner.

Can you take Ativan with a CDL?

Individuals who take benzodiazepines for any length of time should not be allowed to drive until the drug has been cleared from their system (i.e., within seven half-lives of the drug and any active metabolites).

Can you drive on ADHD medication?

We know that stimulant medication for ADHD significantly improves the driver's ability to pay attention to traffic on the road and to better follow traffic laws. Experts in the field of ADHD strongly recommend that drivers who have ADHD take their medication as directed before driving.

Can you drive trucks with ADHD?

The answer is no.

Can truck drivers take Trazodone?

Although a medication is not specifically “prohibited,” any medication which causes sedation or other side effects that interfere with the safe operation of a commercial motor vehicle can be considered disqualifying by the medical examiner. In this case both Trazodone and Risperdal can indeed be sedating.

Can you get a CDL with depression?

Also, if you suffer from depression or anxiety, you may be disqualified from obtaining a CDL.

Can Truck drivers take Zoloft?

A driver cannot take a controlled substance or prescription medication without a prescription from a licensed practitioner. If a driver uses a drug identified in 21 CFR 1308.11 (391.42(b)(12)) or any other substance such as amphetamine, a narcotic, or any other habit forming drug, The driver is medically unqualified.

Can Truck drivers take Trazodone?

Although a medication is not specifically “prohibited,” any medication which causes sedation or other side effects that interfere with the safe operation of a commercial motor vehicle can be considered disqualifying by the medical examiner. In this case both Trazodone and Risperdal can indeed be sedating.

Is Lexapro DOT approved?

Turns out the anti depressant (lexapro) was against DOT regulations. Ok, no prob.

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Who can help with DOT drug testing?

If you’re concerned about the technicalities of DOT drug testing, consortium third-party administrators such as Labworks USA can help you manage the required DOT drug and alcohol testing. Always remember to be responsible for your drug usage and to avoid any DOT prohibited drugs, especially when you’re on duty.

What is the DOT drug test?

At the pre-employment medical examination, a drug test will be administered to the driver, testing for any trace of the five prohibited types of drugs in the driver’s system. Drivers must disclose any medications they’re taking, prescribed or otherwise. If you’ll be taking a drug test during the pre-employment process, be sure to reference the above list of prohibited drugs for CDL drivers to ensure you’re not taking any drugs that fall into these categories. In certain situations, a medical professional may clear a driver to drive despite being prescribed a prohibited medication. The medical examiner will take this into account and determine the driver’s fitness to drive accordingly. In addition, CDL drivers must comply with DOT random drug testing requirements, and they may also need to be tested after they’re involved in accidents.

Is phencyclidine illegal?

Phencyclidine, also known as PCP or angel dust, is an illegal drug that has mind-altering qualities and that the DOT therefore prohibits. The use of phencyclidine can lead to the following side effects:

Is it dangerous to drive with amphetamines?

In addition to these effects, amphetamines are addictive, making them even more dangerous. The illegal use of amphetamines is particularly tempting for truck drivers, as the increased focus and alertness the drugs cause make it easier for drivers to complete shipments more quickly. However, the detrimental effects these drugs can have on drivers far outweigh the positives.

Can you use opioids in a CDL?

For this reason, the DOT does not allow CDL drivers to use opioid medications, even those that are legal or prescribed.

What drugs do truck drivers take?

Unfortunately, many drivers choose illegal methods as a way to stay awake behind the wheel. One of the most common medications truckers take is amphetamines. These types of drugs usually cause someone to become stimulated, excited, or even euphoric. While some amphetamines can be prescribed legally (such as Adderall and Ritalin) it doesn’t necessarily mean those who take those drugs are using them legally.

How to stay awake while driving?

Other ways to stay awake include drinking something with caffeine or other natural elements to help boost energy, listening to an audiobook, or opening the window of their vehicle. All of these legal, natural methods can help keep the driver more alert until they reach their destination.

Is it illegal to take more than one medication?

What is also illegal is if drivers take more medication than what they’ve been prescribed or combine medications in hopes that the combination of the drugs will keep them awake. Most medications have specific instructions to not be taken with other drugs. This is to keep the person using the medication as safe as possible because there could be adverse effects, including impairment, from combining medications.

Is it illegal to drive with meth?

There are also some drugs that are illegal no matter what, such as cocaine or methamphetamine. Drivers will take these drugs to also get high or feel awake while driving. But because drugs like this are illegal, whether a person is driving or not, it makes the roadways especially dangerous if someone has taken a drug like this and then decides to drive.

Should truck drivers take a nap?

Before even thinking about putting something into their system, drivers should pull over and try to rest before getting back on the road. If a truck driver is tired behind the wheel, a quick nap could make the difference between staying safe or getting into an accident.

Can truck drivers stay awake?

That’s why many truck drivers turn to legal, and sometimes illegal, methods to stay awake while on the road.

Why do truck drivers use amphetamines?

Using amphetamines like this is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous for truck drivers in particular. Amphetamines can change your mindset and behavior, which can present hazardous situations on the road. Consistent use of amphetamines can also affect a person’s personality and lead to a host of personal problems.

Can you take drugs while driving?

You can’t take drugs like amphetamines, marijuana, or non-prescribed medications if you are a commercial driver, even when you aren’t on the job. Continue reading for a closer look at the prohibited drugs for truck drivers.

What do you need to be a truck driver?

As part of qualifying to be a truck driver, applicants must get a commercial drivers’ license (CDL). They must also pass a medical examination that certifies they don’t have conditions that will make them unsafe drivers. Problems with eyesight, hearing, limb control, and even diabetes may disqualify a trucker outright. If a trucker who is medically disqualified gets behind the wheel, the trucker and their employer trucking company may both be on the hook for any accidents the driver causes.

How do Trucking Regulations Help Injured Accident Victims?

If the driver or the trucking company violates federal regulations, they may be punished by the government. However, if these violations cause an accident, it may be easier to prove your case against them and seek compensation for your injuries.

Can a trucker use a prescription drug while on the job?

Commercial truck drivers do have some potential loopholes, though. If the drug in question is prescribed by a doctor, the trucker may still be qualified to use the drug while on the job if the prescribing doctor says it is okay. Still, medical examiners that qualify drivers may still reject the prescribing doctor’s opinion if they find the drug too unsafe for the driver to use.

Is anti-seizure medication disqualified?

Anti-seizure medication is also disqualifying, if it is used to treat seizures. These medications may be used for other purposes, such as to treat depression – but if they are used to treat or prevent seizures, the driver is disqualified.

Can truck drivers use Adderall?

Second, truck drivers are never allowed to use prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Many drugs like Adderall are abused to help people stay awake and alert while working long shifts on the road. Some of these drugs are illegal without a prescription, violate federal regulations, and also violate many state DUI or DWI crimes.

What is a CDL driver?

As a truck driver, your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is your livelihood, so it is important to know which drugs –both legal and illegal — might put your career in jeopardy.

What drugs are considered opiods?

Cocaine. Amphetamines (Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA, MDA) Opioids (Codeine, Morphine, Heroin, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone) Phencyclidine (PCP) If you test positive for any of the drugs listed above, you could be disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle.

Can you drive a drug on Schedule I?

If you are prescribed a medication that is either on the DOT’s Schedule I list or is an amphetamine, a narcotic, or any other habit forming drug, you are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle unless the prescribing physician provides your DOT medical examiner with a letter giving you clearance to drive.

Can a doctor disqualify you from CDL?

There are some medications that can be legally prescribed by a physician or that could also disqualify you from keeping your CDL.

Can a drug be approved on a case by case basis?

Common Medications That Pose Potential Problems But Could Be Approved On a Case-By Case Basis (not comprehensive) — If your physician can show that these medications do not affect your ability to drive, it is possible that the DOT medical examiner could approve their use.

Can a driver take a controlled substance without a prescription?

A driver cannot take a controlled substance or prescription medication without a prescription from a licensed practitioner. If a driver uses a drug identified in 21 CFR 1308.11 (391.42 (b) (12)) or any other substance such as amphetamine, a narcotic, or any other habit forming drug, The driver is medically unqualified.

Can a medical examiner certify a driver?

In this case, the Medical Examiner may, but does not have to certify the driver. Any anti-seizure medication used for the prevention of seizures is disqualifying. 1.

What meds are disqualifying you from driving?

The most common meds that create such issues are benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin and Xanax, and narcotics, such as Norco, Oxycodone or Tramadol. While FMCSA says benzodiazepines are disqualifying, that’s not always the case in extremely rare instances. If a driver has been taking a benzodiazepine for years without sedating side effects, and there is a real risk of dangerous withdrawal symptoms, the driver might be certified to drive. The decision is left to the medical examiner, with input from the prescribing physician.

What is trucking law?

The Trucking Law segment is a monthly feature on Overdrive, in which we pose commonly asked questions from truckers and owner-operators to legal experts. In this installment, Dr. Alex Underwood goes into which prescription medications can cause problems for truck drivers. Find all Trucking Law installments via this link.

Is Chantix banned by the FMCSA?

FMCSA has made some notable changes regarding certain medications. The smoking cessation drug varenicline (Chantix) is no longer banned. Short-acting anxiolytics (anxiety relievers) such as Lunesta and Ambien are not disqualifying as long as the short-acting preparation is used, and the driver leaves enough time for the drug to clear his system before driving.

Is a narcotic disqualifying drug?

Narcotics are not outright disqualifying but are heavil y scrutinized. If a driver is using a narcotic, a decision to certify will be made only if the prescribing physician and the medical examiner agree the driver is without deleterious side effects.

Is Xanax a benzodiazepines?

The answer is usually yes. But with over 20,000 prescription drugs approved for marketing, there are many meds the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration considers potentially, if not automatically, disqualifying. The most common meds that create such issues are benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin and Xanax, and narcotics, such as Norco, ...

Can I drive if I'm on XYZ?

Along with the confusion of switching and starting different medications, and the worry of potential side effects from combining meds, a CDL holder often will ask me, “Can I still drive if they put me on XYZ?” The answer is usually yes. But with over 20,000 prescription drugs approved for marketing, there are many meds the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration considers potentially, if not automatically, disqualifying.

Can you get driver's license based on medication?

In most instances, driver certification based on medication use is a case-by-case decision. Given the vast number of drugs available, it’s best to discuss any meds with your prescribing physician, who should be aware of your profession.

What happens if a driver is positive for a drug on a 5 panel drug test?

If the urinalysis is positive for one or more of the drugs on the 5 panel drug test, then the driver will be contacted in person by the Medical Review Officer. The MRO will interview the driver to determine if there is an alternative medical explanation for the drugs found in the urine specimen.

What to ask on a dot medical form?

On the DOT medical examination form that you fill out, it will ask if you are a diabetic and also how you control the condition. So you are the one who is going to tell him about the insulin. Your examining doctor should ask quite a few questions regarding your insulin usage to help determine your options.

What is a confirmation drug test?

Confirmation ensures that over-the-counter medications or preparations are not reported as positive results. If the MRO determines that it is a legitimate medical use of the prohibited drug, the drug test result is reported as negative to the employer. Otherwise the drug test will be reported as positive.

Can you drive with insulin?

If your diabetes is treated with insulin, you will be disqualified for inter-state driving. You may be able to drive intra-state. The DOT does have a few, very stable insulin dependent drivers testing on insulin waivers, but you would have to check with the FMCSA on this issue.

Do medical examiners need documentation?

Depending on the risk posed by the condition and treatment, the medical examiner may require documentation from your doctor. To assist in the preparation of the documentation, you can get more information here, courtesy of Trucker Docs.

Can you drive intrastate?

You may be able to drive intra-state .  Each state has its own rules.

Can you drive if you have diabetes?

If your diabetes is treated with insulin, you will be disqualified for inter-state driving . You may be able to drive intra-state.