Posts Tagged ‘scuba’
Pro Scuba
Tuesday, September 13th, 2011
Will taking seroquel and wellbutrin XR keep me from becoming a pro scuba or commercial diver?
Will the meds affect me differently at depth? Wellbutrin is a time release medication. Who would know about this?
In a word, yes (sorry). For further information, see below.
I just looked up both drugs on Wikipedia, and the potential side effects alone would likely be enough to disqualify diving while using them. Any sedative drug is generally contraindicated for use while diving, since the sedative effect will likely be (synergistically) exacerbated by the narcotic effect of high-pressure nitrogen in the breathing gas, leading to a (greatly) increased risk of physical/mental impairment (and hence accident) underwater.
However, there is another, more important issue here; not the drugs themselves, but the reason for their prescription. Although (Wikipedia suggested that) doctors have prescribed seroquel to treat conditions other than its intended purpose, both drugs appear to be psychoactives, primarily prescribed to treat various psychological disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, etc.)
Since diving occurs in an alien environment, where the diver’s (and their buddy’s) life and health depends on (1) correct use of life-support equipment and (2) remaining cool, calm and collected at all times, pre-existing psychological problems are generally considered an absolute contraindication to diving (several physical conditions are also considered contraindicative, e.g. asthma, diabetes, pregancy…). This may seem unfair, but there are good safety reasons.
I (and probably every instructor you might consult) have seen fully compos mentis adults suffer major panic attacks underwater. The risk of panic for an individual with a pschological disorder is likely several orders of magnitude higher, since they are ‘closer to the edge’ to begin with. Of course, I do not know why you personally have been prescribed these medications, but until (your doctor says that) you no longer need to take them, you are unlikely to be accepted onto even a beginner sport-diving course, let alone a commercial diver training course, without (at least) a certificate of medical fitness signed by a qualified physician.
I would recommend you seek out a doctor specialising in hyperbaric medicine for specific medical advice regarding your personal fitness to dive.
Go Pro Scuba w/ Paul
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Stanley Consumer Storage 029025R 24 Gallon Mobile Chest $70.49 This durable chest has nickel-plated long lasting heavy duty latches with pad lock eyes, is suitable for large size power tools and accessories, and features a portable tray with 2 deep compartments with covers for smaller tools and accessories. It also has a unique tote tray that sits comfortably on the steel handle and easy access to tools and accessories…. |
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Tovatec Aluminum Torch Flashlight $72.95 Ideal for using while snorkeling or diving as well as bringing along on camping and hiking trips, the Tovatec Aluminum Torch flashlight (model IFL 660) shines an extra-bright 220 lumen light to guide you through the dark. Waterproof to 400 feet, the beam is focused for maximum distance and the switch provides settings for reduced beam and strobe features. Specifications: LED light: One 220-lumen … |
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Princeton Tec Pulsar II White LED Key Chain Light (Black Body) $6.99 PULSAR Slightly larger than a quarter and weighing 7 grams the Pulsar provides instant illumination for any situation and offers easy battery replacement. This compact Ultrabright LED burns with unbelievable intensity making it the perfect choice for key chains backpacks book bags zippers and emergency situations. PULSAR II Princeton Tec has taken the smallest item in our product line and made it … |
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Daniel Watkins … |
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Mack’s EarDryer $30.99 Mack’s EarDryer…Finally, a safe, comfortable, natural, easy way to keep your ears dry! Invented by an ENT doctor to safely and effectively dry the outer ear canal where bacteria and fungi can grow, helping prevent swimmer’s ear. Use after swimming, bathing, water sports, hearing aid use, etc. Cordless/rechargeable. Provides 50 drying cycles on a single charge. Dries the ear canal in about one mi… |
