Bipolar and Depression medication & SACAA

[Verreaux]

Hello

I was wondering if someone could help me with any SACAA ruling on medication for these conditions. Is one able to fly or are you likely to have your license pulled ? Has anyone ever approached the aviation medical board with these conditions ?

Many thanks

[Little One]

There is a link on the CAA website to the new protocols

CAA Website

On the left click Aviation Medicine, then amended protocols, and you will see "Mood Disorder (Depression)

Acceptable medicines are
Fluoxetine
Sertraline
Citalopram
Escitalopram

You will still need a report from the psychiatrist that has prescribed the medicines stating what levels you have and this will be assessed by the Panel. You must also be symptom free on the medication for at least 4 weeks with no side effects.

Read through the requirements and if you have any questions mail the CAA doctors directly, there details are also on the website under Inspectors and Contact details. Dr Mahlangu was dealing with this introduction into the standards so I'd recommend contacting her directly with your queries.

Hope this helps

[cavortingcheetah]

Dr Mahlangu trained in Alabama I think?
It has been said that the strength of her power base is not in proportion to her medical knowledge, the former being infinitely greater than that merited by the latter. That at least is my very politely rephrasing of an opinion from a specialist surgeon of my acquaintance in Johannesburg when he and I were discussing the case of a professional pilot patient of his. After reviewing the case at some length, I am much inclined to agree with his diagnosis.

[Chris Opperman]

This is my first posting here, so hello to you!
Bipolar Mood disorder unfortunately is a permanently disqualifying condition. The protocol regarding depression is actually very liberal and easy to comply with. The info given by the other respondents are correct.

[oompilot]

Considering the preliminary findings on the recent LAM accident I would imagine that in the publics best interests these sorts of conditions are seen as no go areas as far as flying is concerned.

[Fuzzy Lager]

"Hi, this is Fuzzy Lager your pilot. Although I am bipolar and suffer from depression please don't worry as I am on medication. Relax and enjoy your flight"

[Trossie]

... power base ... not in proportion to ... knowledge ...

That should be on the 'You know you are in Africa when...' thread, shouldn't it?

[Verreaux]

Thank you, Little One, very informative and helpful indeed.