In maritime healthcare, the management of medications—especially controlled drugs—is critically important for ensuring the safety and well-being of crew members during long voyages. Ships often carry a limited but essential stock of medical supplies in accordance with international maritime regulations, including a carefully monitored inventory of controlled substances.
Controlled drugs are medications that carry a higher risk of abuse, dependence, or harm, and their possession, storage, and administration are subject to strict legal oversight. Onboard vessels, these drugs are typically included in the ship’s medical chest and are managed by the Ship’s Medical Officer or a trained, designated crew member.
The types of controlled drugs permitted at sea are regulated by the flag state under which the vessel is registered. Below is a list of the most common controlled substances found on ships, especially those used for pain management, anxiety, sleep disorders, and emergency medical situations. If you would like a full list of controlled drugs on ships as a pdf to use onboard, use the links provided in our Ship’s Controlled Drug Register article.
🚢 Common Controlled Drugs on Ships
These medications are typically authorized for emergency medical use onboard and must be stored securely and recorded in a Controlled Drugs Register.
💊 1. Opioid Analgesics (Pain Relief)
Used to manage moderate to severe pain, especially in trauma or post-surgical scenarios.
| Drug Name | Common Brand | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Morphine Sulfate | Various | Severe pain, injury, burns |
| Codeine Phosphate | Various | Moderate pain, cough suppressant |
| Fentanyl (Patch or Injection) | Duragesic | Severe pain, rapid relief |
| Tramadol (controlled in some jurisdictions) | Ultram | Moderate pain management |
🧠 2. Benzodiazepines (Sedatives & Anxiolytics)
Useful for acute anxiety, seizures, and as pre-medication before certain procedures.
| Drug Name | Common Brand | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Diazepam | Valium | Anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms |
| Lorazepam | Ativan | Acute anxiety, sedation |
| Clonazepam | Klonopin | Seizure control |
😴 3. Hypnotics (Sleep Aids)
Used short-term for insomnia, particularly in situations where sleep is critical.
| Drug Name | Common Brand | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Zopiclone | Imovane | Insomnia, sleep disorders |
| Zolpidem | Ambien | Short-term sleep aid |
⚡ 4. Controlled Stimulants (Rare on Ships)
Occasionally included for conditions like narcolepsy or severe fatigue, but generally limited.
| Drug Name | Common Brand | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Modafinil | Provigil | Fatigue, narcolepsy (rare use) |
🛡️ 5. Emergency or Special Use Drugs
| Drug Name | Common Brand | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Ketamine | Ketalar | Emergency anesthesia |
| Buprenorphine | Subutex | Opioid detox (if licensed) |
⚠️ Important Notes:
- All controlled drugs must be stored in a locked and secured cabinet, with restricted access.
- Each administration must be recorded in the Controlled Drugs Register, including dosage, reason, and signature of the person administering.
- Disposal of expired or unused controlled substances must follow flag state and port authority regulations.
