Trazodone
Brand names: Desyrel|Last verified: 2026-09-12
FAA Pathway: Do Not Issue (DNI) — psychiatric medication not on the FAA's acceptable antidepressant list
Trazodone (Desyrel) is not acceptable for FAA medical certification. The FAA's Do Not Issue table covers psychiatric medications, including antidepressants, even when they are used for other conditions such as insomnia, and trazodone is not on the FAA's list of conditionally acceptable antidepressants. An AME cannot issue while you are taking it.
Related Resources
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
Sources
- FAA Do Not Issue Table
- FAA Do-Not-Issue/Do-Not-Fly Table (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/DNI_DNF_tables.pdf)
Last verified: 2026-09-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trazodone allowed for pilots?
The FAA considers Trazodone (Desyrel) to be "Disqualifying" for medical certification purposes. Trazodone (Desyrel) is not acceptable for FAA medical certification. The FAA's Do Not Issue table covers psychiatric medications, including antidepressants, even when they are used for other conditions such as insomnia, and trazodone is not on the FAA's list of conditionally acceptable antidepressants. An AME cannot issue while you are taking it.
What is the FAA status of Trazodone?
Trazodone has a status of "Disqualifying" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Do Not Issue (DNI) — psychiatric medication not on the FAA's acceptable antidepressant list.
Can I fly while taking Trazodone?
Trazodone is currently disqualifying for FAA medical certification. You cannot fly while taking this medication. A washout period and evaluation are typically required after discontinuation. Consult an AME or aviation attorney before making any medication changes.
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.