National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

What disqualifying factor relates to the medication Paxil for a driver?

1. It is not disqualifying.

2. It requires a waiting period after use.

3. Paxil is disqualifying if used.

4. It does not require documentation.

The correct answer is: Paxil is disqualifying if used.

Paxil, which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used primarily to treat depression and anxiety disorders, can be considered a disqualifying factor for drivers under the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. The reason for this classification lies in its potential side effects, which may impair a driver's ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. These side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired cognitive function, all of which are critical factors when safety is a concern on the road. The DOT has specific guidelines regarding the use of medications that can affect a driver's performance, and for certain psychotropic medications like Paxil, the regulations dictate that their use can disqualify an individual from holding a commercial driver's license until they can demonstrate that they are stable and not adversely affected by the medication. Furthermore, in the context of the other choices, acknowledging that Paxil requires documentation for use or that it is not disqualifying does not address the primary concern about safety and potential impairment. The necessity of a waiting period pertains more to medications known for more prolonged effects or withdrawal symptoms and is not applicable in the same way to Paxil. Hence, the established understanding is that the use of Paxil can disqualify a driver