Indian Air Force pilots pop pills to 'improve performance'
Go/No-Go medicines are given to fighter pilots across the IAF in a military exercise, which simulated a two-front war
PHOTO: REUTERS
Pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF) are reportedly using 'authorised' pills to increase levels of alertness and cognitive abilities, thus improving performance during combat exercises.
While Modafinil, named the 'Go' pill, is used to enhance cognitive abilities while fighting fatigue and sleep deprivation. Zolpidem, named the 'No-Go' pill, a sedative used to treat insomnia and is given to pilots when they are not on duty.
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"Field trials and studies were conducted by our doctors to validate pharmacological strategies for sleep and alertness management for aircrews in extended operations," a senior IAF officer said.
Following extensive clinical trials, the pills were used in the Livewire military exercise, a two-front war held by IAF in 54 of its airbases across the country, from October 31 to November 8. From fighter and helicopter pilots to air traffic controllers, including top officers, were made to take the Go/No-Go pills to put to test their offensive, as well as defensive capabilities during a two-front war contingency.
"It was a 24x7 exercise to stimulate a war, which requires high adrenaline levels and the ability to push the envelope," the officer said.
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"The Go/No-Go pills are being used to optimise performance only after extensive clinical trials, both in simulators and actual flying, with all necessary safeguards."
Though fighter pilots are not allowed to consume these pill on a daily basis, the officer said, "Side-effects of both the pills during trials were negligible and did not appear to be a cause for concern."
Pilots are allowed to take the drugs for specific missions only, and under strict supervision.
This article originally appeared on Times of India
While Modafinil, named the 'Go' pill, is used to enhance cognitive abilities while fighting fatigue and sleep deprivation. Zolpidem, named the 'No-Go' pill, a sedative used to treat insomnia and is given to pilots when they are not on duty.
India approves induction of female fighter pilots in air force
"Field trials and studies were conducted by our doctors to validate pharmacological strategies for sleep and alertness management for aircrews in extended operations," a senior IAF officer said.
Following extensive clinical trials, the pills were used in the Livewire military exercise, a two-front war held by IAF in 54 of its airbases across the country, from October 31 to November 8. From fighter and helicopter pilots to air traffic controllers, including top officers, were made to take the Go/No-Go pills to put to test their offensive, as well as defensive capabilities during a two-front war contingency.
"It was a 24x7 exercise to stimulate a war, which requires high adrenaline levels and the ability to push the envelope," the officer said.
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"The Go/No-Go pills are being used to optimise performance only after extensive clinical trials, both in simulators and actual flying, with all necessary safeguards."
Though fighter pilots are not allowed to consume these pill on a daily basis, the officer said, "Side-effects of both the pills during trials were negligible and did not appear to be a cause for concern."
Pilots are allowed to take the drugs for specific missions only, and under strict supervision.
This article originally appeared on Times of India