Zoloft

Discussion in 'Trucking Industry Regulations' started by newbee NC, Nov 11, 2007.

  1. newbee NC

    newbee NC Bobtail Member

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    Does anyone know if taking zoloft for depression is prohibited by DOT. I take it with a prescription and do not want to be disqualified for work. It does not affect my driving at all. Also, does anyone know if zoloft is tested for or shows up in a drug test. I plan on not telling my employer if at all possible. I want to avoid unnessesary complications and would only admit it if it showed up on a drug test. Does anyone have any experiance with this?
    Thanks:yes2557:
     
  2. WiseOne

    WiseOne Inactive contact bullhaulerswife

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    No, Zoloft is NOT tested for and is an anti-depressant. I took it while driving and took drug tests with no problems. BUT, always make sure to disclose any and everything you are taking during such tests to be on the safe side. Hope this helps!
     
  3. Coastal Transport

    Coastal Transport Bobtail Member

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    If it was me i woulnt take the chance and ask on this forum i would call up the doctor and ask about the driving part, i wouldnt want to fall asleep with 80000 pounds rolling down the road:biggrin_1square2:
     
  4. 25(2)+2

    25(2)+2 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Zoloft won't be found by DOT drug test, and it isn't often used to aid in sleeping, but most drugs have advisory information not to drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the drug affects you. Nothing normally used for sleep helps me sleep, so on a similar vein, a drug may have a side effect of drowsiness for any individual not accustomed to taking it. If you have been taking Zoloft for awhile without it making you drowsy, it probably is going to be OK.
     
  5. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    Not all doctors understand the trucking job. They think that everyone works at a desk and can take time off and be paid for it. The doctor will put a blanket no driving without thinking. Definately try to explain it to the doctor.

    Zoloft does not always have a sleep side effect. If the user is not troubled by the sleep or any side effect, there should be no problem with driving. It is not a restricted drug under the DOT guidelines.
     
  6. Markk9

    Markk9 "On your mark"

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    The DOT doesn't have a legal drug list ban, it's up to the company you drive for.

    Mark
     
  7. WiseOne

    WiseOne Inactive contact bullhaulerswife

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    No, Zoloft NEVER made me even the slightest bit tired at all. He certainly won't have a problem with Zoloft. Now what I'm taking now...Xanax he COULD fall asleep, LOL.
     
  8. newbee NC

    newbee NC Bobtail Member

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    Thanks for all the replies. Zoloft does not make me tired at all. I have been taking it for years and it does not affect my driving. I dont plan on telling anyone unless it comes up and I am directly questioned if I take zoloft. I feel it doesn't negatively effect my job performance so why would I risk being disqualified for a good job if I dont have to.
     
  9. Markk9

    Markk9 "On your mark"

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    On your DOT physical there is a place to list all medication taken. Most companies have it in the employee handbook, that any change in medication must be given to the safety dept. If you get into an accident with serious bodily injury or death, your medical records will be request by the DA. If the medications you take do not match your DOT form, you are going to prison.

    Mark
     
  10. Cybergal

    Cybergal Road Train Member

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    Depression is a problem and can result in not driving depending on the severity of the condition.
    But as long as you have a prescription for this medication and its working to help you with your depression, all is good!