Medication and Diving...Is it Safe?

Nearly everyone has to take medication at some point in their lives for something. It is typically advised that you not scuba dive while taking medication, but in some cases this is unavoidable. DAN medic's say that the question they most often get asked is, "Is it safe to dive while taking (insert medication name here)?". This question generally comes in response to concerns about new or worsening side effects while underwater. While it is possible for the pressure at depth, especially if it is deeper than 80ft, to trigger side effects it is more likely that the biggest cause for concern is the underlying condition the medication is treating causing adverse effects underwater.
DAN encourages divers who are taking medication to gain experience with the medication on land prior to planning any dives. If they experience side effects during the first 30 days of treatment, they may want to consider the safety of diving while on that medication. 
Think about the side effects that you have experienced: Do they impair your decision making skills, cause a distraction, or cause a change in level of conciousness/awareness? If these are true, it may not be safe to dive as you may experience these side effects while at depth. 
The following are some questions DAN recommends you consider when determining if diving while on medication is a safe option for you.
When answering these questions, make sure you consider both the symptoms of the illness and the medication side effects

• Is there a risk of sinus congestion which could lead to ear drum rupture or other serious sinus issue as the pressure changes?
• Does the medication cause you to be sleepy or less alert?
• What will happen if the medication wears off while diving?
• Could pain cause impaired mobility?
• Are you dehydrated from diarrhea or vomiting?
• Are you in good physical health?
• Are you able to handle stress and stressful situations
• Is your ability to breathe freely impacted?
• Is there an infection that can be complicated by depth and pressure changes
• Does the medication manage the symptoms or could they be confused with other dive related injuries/illnesses?
• Is there a potential for excess gas to become trapped in the body?
• Could heavy gear or strenuous exercise cause problems?

This is a brief list of questions to consider and/or discuss with your doctor prior to diving while on medication, it is not intended to diagnose or treat any illnesses.
Feel free to contact DAN (Diver Alert Network) directly with any questions.