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There are certain precautions you must keep in mind when using prescription drugs. Specific medications have a high likelihood of getting you in trouble. And in times of economic uncertainty, the last thing you need is to get in trouble for drug abuse, let alone fog your judgment.
So, here’s what you need to know:
Illegal – Not Prescription – Drugs
Truck drivers have to take drug tests pre-employment for the following:
- Marijuana
- Opioids (Codeine, Morphine, Heroin, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone)
- Cocaine
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Amphetamines (Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA, MDA)
Because you test positive for any of the drugs, you may be void from using any commercial motor vehicles to haul loads. It’s significant to understand that while marijuana use has been made legal in many states, it does remain illegal to use on a federal level.
Prescription Medications
On the other hand, there are some medications that could be legally given to you.
However, some medications are said by the U.S. Department of Transportation as acceptable prescirption drugs. On the list are various drugs, however.
Furthermore, if you are given 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 not able to operate a motor vehicle unless the prescribing physician provides your DOT medical examiner with a letter giving you clearance to drive. Even then, it is up to the DOT medical examiner — not the prescribing physician — to determine whether the drug disqualifies you from operating a commercial motor vehicle.
Medications That Are Never Acceptable, Even With Waiver
- Medical Marijuana
- Methadone
- Kratom
- CBD Products That Contain THC
- Any Anti-seizure Medication
Common Medications Which Pose Problems But Could Be Acceptable On Depending On Certain Circumstances (not comprehensive) — If your physician can show these medications don’t affect your ability to drive, it’s likely that the DOT medical examiner could approve their use.
- Xanax
- Paxil
- Imitrex
- Zonisamide
- Lorazepam
- Tramadol
- Lunesta
- Ambien
- Flexeril
- Provigil
- Adderall
- Oxycodone
Finally, the FMCSA will tell you what else can disqualify a truck driver here.
