Seafarer with hyperactivity disorder on amphetamine

Abstract

A general practitioner decided that a first-time Scandinavian seafarer with hyperactivity disorder, reasonably well-regulated on dextroamphetamine, was fit for unrestricted work at sea. Carrying amphetamine across US borders is drug smuggling, and when the cruise ship could not supply his medication from local ports, his behaviour became so erratic that he had to be signed off. Doctors providing medical fitness certificates for work at sea must understand the special requirements of seafaring life, know details about medicine use restrictions aboard, and be familiar with international import bans and national prescription regulations for controlled substances.