From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Fluoxetine is generally DOT compliant for commercial drivers, provided the medication is used as prescribed and the underlying condition is stable, as there is no specific prohibition by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the medication's side effects typically resolve after a few weeks of treatment 1. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) does not specifically prohibit the use of fluoxetine (Prozac) for commercial drivers. Commercial drivers taking fluoxetine should ensure they have been on a stable dose for at least 6 months without significant side effects before operating commercial vehicles. Some key points to consider include:
- The prescribing physician has determined that the medication doesn't impair driving ability and that the underlying condition being treated is well-controlled.
- Initial side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired concentration may occur when starting fluoxetine, but these typically resolve after a few weeks of treatment, as noted in studies such as 2 and 1.
- Medical examiners performing DOT physicals will evaluate each case individually, considering both the medication and the condition being treated.
- Drivers should always disclose all medications during their DOT physical examination and carry documentation from their treating physician stating the condition is stable and the medication doesn't affect safe driving ability. It's also important to note that fluoxetine has a relatively safe side effect profile, with common adverse events including nausea, nervousness, and insomnia, but these are usually not severe and do not typically affect driving ability, as discussed in 3, 4, and 5.