Disappointing
 

Well, over the last year, I've been getting more and more excited about pursuing a career in aviation. But, I finally discovered the bad news that I had feared:

I've been on effexor since I was 18 (27 now). Its an antidepressant that I haven't been able to get off of. Nothing wrong with my life or anything, but seems to basically be a chemical imbalance. Sadly, this will prohibit me from getting a pilot's license. I really had my heart set on this and I must say, I'm a bit disappointed.

But, nevertheless, I completely understand the reasoning. The medication works great for me and I've never had a repeat of depression since I started my treatment (other than the usual when I've lost loved ones, etc). But even though I may be stable on my meds, its hard to make that kind of determination from person to person. So, I can understand why the FAA would not allow it.

Well, I guess I'll have to resign myself to simply being an aviation fanatic. I've still got my scanners and my flight sim and my models and collections of photographs.

-- Digant

Nine years seems to be a very long time to be on an anti-depressant. :uhoh: It's not usually the medication that would preclude you from flying but the underlying condition it's treating. Presumably FAA contacted your treating doctor. If you do a search on this forum you will find others who have been in a similar predicament.

Disapointing news just the same.

Good luck
H.