Posted: 3/2/2026 6:51:18 PM EDT
[Last Edit: shasta69][Edited]
|
Hi Folks, Have a family friend who wants to join the Air Force. Scored 80 on ASVAB and went to MEPS. At MEPS, the evaluators noted prescribed Hydroxizine for anxiety was holding up this friend. It was prescribed to them since their mom and dad (both heroin users) created a lackluster homelife. They were on Hydroxizine it for about 2 to 3 months. This all said, Recruiter told our friend to come back in two years. This would be a total of ten (10) years since Hydroxizine was prescribed. Googled and noted some folks only needed to be off it for 2 or 3 years, before they were medically cleared for Recruit Training. Our family friend is still gung-ho for the AF. They already know what they want to do (Dental Hygenist) and isn't some flake. They would be an asset to the service. Am retired E7, so I know what to look for in perspective recruits. So hopefully, there is a USAF Recruiter that can provide some guidance for this medical hold-up. Please advise and THANKS! |
|
There may be other circumstances that are complicating the waiver. The medication itself shouldn’t be a problem. My son (now USAF) had to disclose all meds including one that can be prescribed as an anti anxiety medication. He did need a waiver for some medical stuff as a kid, but not the medication specifically. No issues getting his waiver approved. Being a military dependent, all of his medical records since birth were in MHS Genesis, so there was no hiding anything. |
|
Originally Posted By Urimaginaryfrnd: As you may know Air Force recruiters don't have to work nearly as hard as Army and Marine recruiters. ( I'm not familiar with Navy recruiters). Why don't you venture down to the AF recruiters and visit with them see if there is a waiver |
USN Retired: APR 1988 - MAY 2008
"My center is giving way, my right is falling back, situation excellent, I attack." —Ferdinand Foch
"My center is giving way, my right is falling back, situation excellent, I attack." —Ferdinand Foch
|
It is the diagnosis of anxiety more than the medication. Hydroxyzine can also be used for allergies,urticaia etc (though not often). The diagnosis is a sticking point as it is in AR40-501 (Army standards ) most likely USAF standards are similar. Untreated (with medication) anxiety is usually not disqualifying though it may require further work up or waivers. |
|
Originally Posted By majg1234: It is the diagnosis of anxiety more than the medication. Hydroxyzine can also be used for allergies,urticaia etc (though not often). The diagnosis is a sticking point as it is in AR40-501 (Army standards ) most likely USAF standards are similar. Untreated (with medication) anxiety is usually not disqualifying though it may require further work up or waivers. I had a severe allergic reaction to an antibiotic and the ER doctor actually recommended using Hydroxyzine over Benadryl for allergic reactions for people 50 and older. Definitely look to see what kind of waivers might be needed. |
DAV lifetime member
NRA Patriot Life Benefactor
NRA Patriot Life Benefactor