Profile For Joe S.

I have similar issues and have been looking for an answer all over the place. I have a chronic pain disorder and take a low dose (2.5 to 5 mg) once or twice a day of oxycodone. In the summer I usually only need 2.5 at night. I also take Seroquil XR and Mirapex for restless leg. I called the recruiter for the company and asked if my medications disqualify me and I was told that she would have to ask the safety manager but I haven't heard back from her (been over a month). My meds do not affect my ability to drive. The oxy has no affect on me in low dose and on the rare occasions I have to take more it makes me feel like I've drank a quad espresso. My script allows me up to 4x 5mg a day and I have had the same script for 4 1/2 years without increasing it.

My Dr. Did my DOT for my CDL permit and I have documentation from her stating my meds don't adversely affect my ability to operate any vehicle safely. What I found at DOT's website is:

(ii) Does not use any non-Schedule I drug or substance that is identified in the other Schedules in 21 part 1308 except when the use is prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner, as defined in § 382.107, who is familiar with the driver's medical history and has advised the driver that the substance will not adversely affect the driver's ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.

Last Thursday I saw a doctor and asked for a prescription NSAID so I could stop the oxy long enough for the pre employment screen. Over the counters don't work but the one he prescribed is. Problem is I don't want to take it long term because it (as well as most NSAID'S) damage the liver with extended use.

If I read DOT accurately then legally I should be fine. I also didn't see anything on the DOT site about 30 days before driving again after taking a narcotic but it seems to me that if you have the documentation from your Dr. Stating it doesn't affect your ability to operate a CV safely it shouldn't matter.

It may seem from my meds that I'm in horrible shape but I'm not. My conditions are managed and I can work, and work safely. I really want to drive. If I like it as much as I think I will I intend to buy my own truck after 6 months.

I would appreciate any information, confirmation, ideas, etc anyone could provide.

Thanks!