Question
I have a HUGE problem!
When I went in for the DOT physical I put down on the DMV form that I took Xanax in the evening to help me sleep. (.25 pills and I only took 1/2 pill. And this was written on the DMV form.) That form was faxed by the CDL school to a prospective employer and I have been informed that I will not be considered for employment until I have discontinued use for 30 days.
The problem comes in here....the prospective employer stated that they need a letter from my prescribing Dr. stating the date that I discontinued use and a follow-up letter in 30 days stating that I did in fact discontinue use for the preceeding 30 days. What are my options if the Dr, is unwilling to write any letters for me?
I suggested to his nurse (he was off today and will return to work on Tuesday) that I could bring in the remaining pills and have them cancel my refill. Her response was that there is nothing that would stop me from going to another Dr. and getting another prescription. She also stated that if I made my job more important than my physical and mental health that they could not force me to take the medication.
I was prescribed the medication because of stress at work. I used to be in a high pressure sales environment. I quit my job a week ago on Wednesday. Since that job was what caused my stress, I am not concerned about discontinuing the medication. The situation that caused the symptoms has been eliminated and there is no further need for the medication. I took my last 1/2 pill last night and will not be taking any more.
ANY suggestions will be MOST appreciated! I can not afford to delay (officially) starting the 30 day period. As it stands, if the Dr. is willing to write the letters I will graduate CDL school in May 16th and attend orientation on May 20th. Getting to work on May 24th with training. If I can not find a way to OFFICIALLY start that 30 days it will begin to put a LOT more financial problems on my plate.
Thanks for any advice you can give!
I wanna wear Levis and a ponytail...NOT suits!
Answer
I posted a detailed response to your question in the roundtable forum, but here is the quick and dirty version.
I think what the carrier is concerned about is the fact that the medication prescribed MAY, in high enough dosages, affect your ability to safely operate a CMV. Also, the new medical evaluation regs. address sleep disorders where they never did before. Taking this med for sleep has sent up a red flag. Talk with your Dr. about discontinuing the medication of you are able to obtain enough restful sleep without it and if he agrees ask him to write the required statement. Help him understand what the problem is. Many physician's do not know anything about the medical criteria involved when dealing with a truck driver vs. Joe Public.
Good luck to you, let us know whow things go.
Keeping you safe, healthy and on the road.
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Answer
I posted a detailed explanation of the other reasons why I am so concerned in the Round table forum. If you have a minute to check it out I would sure appreciate it.
I wanna wear Levis and a ponytail...NOT suits!
Answer
Nurse Red isnt Xanax a dopamine drug?
Dont mind me,Im an Alien!