D&A and prescription medication

[Nash]

Hi

My son is interested in a rail career but as he takes 1 Ritalin a day which is an amphetamine type ( Methylphenidate ) does that mean he won't pass a D&A ?

 

[scotraildriver]

You would have to check permissible medication with the TOC. But you won't necessarily fail a D & A if you tell them first and it is acceptable then when it shows up there is no problem. You can fail for taking a painkiller or something which is why they ask first if you have taken anything at all, then it is no problem. Only an issue if something turns up you've not declared.

 

[cf111]

I'm not a Doctor or a HR type, but if you are on prescribed medication and declare it before you take the test, then it would only be an issue if the effects of that medication would make it unsafe to perform your duties. I once took a routine drugs test while on Clarithromycin (an antibiotic) and I failed for Cocaine (!) but because I'd declared it I was fine.

I wouldn't let him put it off, but when he does apply, I'd make sure he does declare it when he's asked because finding it in the test results otherwise might make it look a bit dodgy.