Definition
Drugs or agents that reduce or eliminate sensation, particularly pain, by depressing nerve function. They range from local anesthetics that numb a small area (such as those used by a dentist) to general anesthetics that produce unconsciousness for surgery. Many anesthetics, and the procedures requiring them, can leave residual effects on alertness, judgment, and coordination for hours or days afterward, making flight unsafe.
Plain English
Medicines that block pain or put you to sleep for medical or dental procedures. Even after they wear off, they can leave you foggy, slow, or impaired enough that flying isn't safe.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA discussions of drugs and medical fitness to fly, especially when deciding whether a recent medical or dental procedure could affect safe pilot performance.
Derivation
From the Greek 'anaisthesia,' meaning 'without sensation' — 'an-' (without) plus 'aisthesis' (feeling). The word literally describes what these drugs do: remove the ability to feel.
Why Pilots Care
Any pilot who has received anesthetics must follow FAA waiting periods before flying, as even local anesthetics can affect coordination and judgment.
Intuition Check
Do not assume anesthetics only matter while you are in the doctor’s or dentist’s chair. They can still affect your ability to fly after the procedure is over.
Example Sentence 1
After receiving local anesthetics during a dental filling that morning, the pilot postponed his afternoon flight until the next day.
Example Sentence 2
After general anesthetics for minor surgery, the pilot waited the required time before returning to the cockpit.