Rizatriptan
Brand names: Maxalt|Last verified: 2026-09-12
FAA Pathway: Acceptable for occasional use under CACI — 24-hour no-fly after each dose
The FAA's migraine medication guidance (updated 08/26/2026) lists rizatriptan as CACI acceptable for migraine relief when used occasionally. You must not fly for 24 hours after each dose. Daily use is not acceptable, and needing multiple relief medications on a recurring basis is considered complicated migraine, which requires the AME to defer.
Related Resources
Pilot Tip
Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.
Certification Details
Sources
- FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Migraine (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Migraine_Medication.pdf)
Last verified: 2026-09-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rizatriptan allowed for pilots?
The FAA considers Rizatriptan (Maxalt) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. The FAA's migraine medication guidance (updated 08/26/2026) lists rizatriptan as CACI acceptable for migraine relief when used occasionally. You must not fly for 24 hours after each dose. Daily use is not acceptable, and needing multiple relief medications on a recurring basis is considered complicated migraine, which requires the AME to defer.
What is the FAA status of Rizatriptan?
Rizatriptan has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Acceptable for occasional use under CACI — 24-hour no-fly after each dose.
Can I fly while taking Rizatriptan?
Flying while taking Rizatriptan may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.
Important Notice
The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.
The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.