Can You Donate Blood if You Smoke Pot?
The short answer is probably not. As much as it seems like cannabis has little to no health risks, marijuana may still prevent people from donating blood.
Why is it Not Allowed?
Blood banks and donation centers are required to follow strict safety guidelines. One of those guidelines, set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), prohibits donors from donating blood if they have used marijuana in the last 12 months.
Marijuana use can raise the risk of infectious diseases due to increased risk-taking behavior, as well as the presence of certain toxins that may be in the cannabis plant. Unfortunately, the presence of these chemicals our of your system can take some time–longer than the FDA’s 12-month restriction.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes. There are some cases in which you may be able to donate blood, even if you have used marijuana in the last 12 months.
Special Considerations:
- You must live in a state where recreational use of marijuana is legal.
- You must have a valid prescription for medical marijuana.
- You must not be under the influence at the time of donation.
- You must not have any symptoms of an active infection.
If you meet all of the criteria above, you may be able to donate blood, but you should check with your local blood donation center before doing so.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that the safety of our blood supply is of paramount importance. Even if you meet all of the criteria for donating blood, it’s still not recommended to donate if you have recently used marijuana.
However, if you are prescribed medical marijuana for a health condition, you may be able to donate blood once you’ve reached a 12 month period of abstinence. At that point, it is always best to speak to a medical professional and to contact your local blood donation center for more information.
Always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical routine.
