Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor Eye Drops (Glaucoma)Conditionally Approved

Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic)

Brand names: Trusopt|Last verified: 2026-09-12

FAA Pathway: CACI (Conditions AMEs Can Issue) — AME may issue if glaucoma criteria are met

Dorzolamide eye drops are on the FAA's list of CACI glaucoma medications, alone or in combination products. Your AME can issue a certificate if you meet the criteria. Bring a current, detailed clinical progress note from your eye doctor, from a visit no more than 90 days before your exam, covering your history, medications and side effects, exam findings, test results, diagnosis, and plan.

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Pilot Tip

Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.

Certification Details

FAA Status

CACI glaucoma medication (FAA Glaucoma & Ocular Hypertension guidance, updated 08/27/2025)

Required Document

Detailed clinical progress note from a visit no more than 90 days before your AME exam

Certificate Classes

All classes, if CACI criteria are met

Notes

Combination drops (e.g., Combigan, Cosopt) are also CACI; oral glaucoma medications such as acetazolamide require Special Issuance

Sources

FAA AME Guide, Ophthalmology
FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/GlaucomaOcularHypertensionMedications.pdf)

Last verified: 2026-09-12

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic) allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic) (Trusopt) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Dorzolamide eye drops are on the FAA's list of CACI glaucoma medications, alone or in combination products. Your AME can issue a certificate if you meet the criteria. Bring a current, detailed clinical progress note from your eye doctor, from a visit no more than 90 days before your exam, covering your history, medications and side effects, exam findings, test results, diagnosis, and plan.

What is the FAA status of Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic)?

Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic) has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: CACI (Conditions AMEs Can Issue) — AME may issue if glaucoma criteria are met.

Can I fly while taking Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic)?

Flying while taking Dorzolamide (Ophthalmic) may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.

Important Notice

The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.

The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.