Can You Donate Blood if You Use Medical Marijuana?
When it comes to marijuana, things can get complicated. America's laws vary from state to state, and what is acceptable in one state may be illegal in another, so it is incredibly necessary to know the rules. This might be obvious to some, but knowing is still essential. Some might not know if using medical marijuana would disqualify them from donating blood. At first thought, the answer to this question seems straightforward, but it is more surprising than you would think. Continue reading this article to learn about if you can donate blood while using marijuana and other restrictions when doing blood that you should know.
Donating Blood And Marijuana
Generally, blood donation centers or similar organizations like the Red Cross will hold blood drives. These events are great since they help those in need. These organizations, like the red cross, have rules when it comes to being donors. To donate blood, you must be seventeen or older(in some states, sixteen with a parent's consent). You can only donate blood six times a year with fifty-six days between each period. You must weigh at least 1110 lbs and feel in good health. Things may differ depending on what you are donating. For example, according to the red cross, you can donate plasma 13 times a year with 28 days between each period.
Depending on where you are donating, you may or may not able able to donate blood if you use marijuana. For the Red Cross, you can be allowed as long as you are in a healthy condition and don't show signs of impairment. However, the rules change depending on where you donate, so this is not a one size fits all rule. Other illicit drugs may prevent you from donating. The FDA is the government body that delegates the rules for blood donation and does not require THC test. There are no hard rules for how much time you need for cannabis to be out of the system, but to be safe you should not use cannabis the day of your appointment.
Can You Donate Plasma While Using Cannabis?
Water, salts, and enzymes are carried by plasma. In the body, plasma is responsible for transporting nutrients, hormones, and proteins. With this knowledge, you might be curious if there are any special rules to donating plasma that does not apply to donating blood. Well, the news is that you can. Again, the use of marijuana does not disqualify you from donating. While donating, you cannot show signs of intoxication.
What recreational drugs disqualify you from donating blood?
Blood donation eligibility regarding recreational drug use varies, but using illegal drugs or sharing needles leads to temporary or permanent disqualification from donating blood. This protects the donor and the recipient since certain substances can negatively impact the quality of donated blood. This can lead to health risks. Being under the influence of alcohol at a donation center is forbidden. Some centers may have specific guidelines for drug use and donation timeframes. You should be honest during the screening process. Donors should contact their local blood donation center for guidance if there are any doubts about eligibility.
Can you donate blood with CBD or THC in your system?
CBD use does not disqualify an individual from donating blood; however, if the use of cannabis impairs memory or comprehension, potential donors will not be able to donate blood. THC, the main psychoactive component of marijuana, is not tested for in blood donations by the Red Cross. This does not mean you should be high when donating, as that would prevent you from being a donor. Organizations like the red cross encourage those that reach their necessary rules to donate blood. They do not discourage marijuana users from donating blood. It is important to know while marijuana is still considered a schedule one drug by the federal government, organizations like the Drug Enforcement Administration do not make the rules for donating blood. It is the FDA.
Can I give blood if I smoke?
In most cases, smoking does not disqualify you from donating blood. Smoking or using tobacco products is generally not considered a risk that affects donated blood quality or the recipient's health. If you are a smoker, you should be eligible to donate blood. While screening, being honest about your health, lifestyle, and any substances you might be using is essential. While smoking may have certain health effects on the donor, it usually does not lead to immediate disqualification from blood donation. If you are a regular smoker and considering donating blood, you should avoid smoking the day of your appointment as well as up to three hours after your appointment. Blood pressure can rise if you smoke before your appointment. Also, you may be disqualified from donating if you do this. If you smoke afterward, you may feel dizzy, so avoid this.
The More You Know
Donating plasma is a great way to help those in need. Knowing the rules and regulations of the blood donation center is essential. To avoid potential harm to donors and recipients, it is also necessary to be transparent about cannabis use. By adhering to the center's recommendations, plasma supply safety can be ensured. If plasma donation isn't an option, there are other ways to contribute. These include volunteering with charitable organizations or participating in medical research that requires cannabis users. Donating plasma or engaging in any generous act requires considering the health risks of cannabis use. Additionally, blood donation centers or similar organizations must know of any relevant information when you donate.
