FDA-Approved Medical Eligibility Requirements

Complete guide to plasma donation with medical conditions and medications

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🩺 Complete Medical Conditions Guide

Common Medical Conditions & Plasma Donation Eligibility

Medical Condition Eligibility Status Requirements Waiting Period
Diabetes (Type 2, Controlled) ✅ ELIGIBLE A1C under 7%, stable medication None
Diabetes (Uncontrolled) ❌ INELIGIBLE Must achieve stable control first Until controlled
Epilepsy (3+ Years Seizure-Free) ✅ ELIGIBLE Stable on medication, no recent seizures 3 years seizure-free
Epilepsy (Recent Seizures) ❌ INELIGIBLE Must be seizure-free 3 years from last seizure
High Blood Pressure (Controlled) ✅ ELIGIBLE Under 180/100, stable medication None
Depression (Stable) ✅ ELIGIBLE Stable on approved medications None
Anxiety Disorders ⚠️ CONDITIONAL Depends on medication type Varies by treatment
Asthma (Well-Controlled) ✅ ELIGIBLE No recent severe attacks None
Heart Disease ❌ INELIGIBLE Cardiovascular conditions disqualify Permanent
Cancer (History) ⚠️ CONDITIONAL Depends on type and treatment 5+ years cancer-free
Autoimmune Disorders ❌ INELIGIBLE Most autoimmune conditions disqualify Permanent
Thyroid Conditions ✅ ELIGIBLE Stable hormone levels None if controlled

💊 Medication Guide for Plasma Donors

✅ ALLOWED Medications

  • Metformin - Diabetes medication (most common)
  • Lisinopril/ACE Inhibitors - Blood pressure control
  • Sertraline (Zoloft) - Depression/anxiety
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro) - Depression/anxiety
  • Levothyroxine - Thyroid hormone replacement
  • Birth Control Pills - Hormonal contraceptives
  • Albuterol Inhaler - Asthma rescue medication
  • Omeprazole (Prilosec) - Acid reflux
  • Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen - Pain relief (occasional)

⚠️ CONDITIONAL Medications

  • Insulin - Requires stable diabetes control
  • Anti-seizure medications - Must be seizure-free 3+ years
  • Blood thinners - Case-by-case evaluation
  • Immunosuppressants - Usually disqualifying
  • Antipsychotics - Stability required
  • Steroids - Depends on dosage and reason

❌ DISQUALIFYING Medications

  • Isotretinoin (Accutane) - Wait 1 month after stopping
  • Finasteride (Propecia) - Wait 1 month after stopping
  • Dutasteride - Wait 6 months after stopping
  • Hepatitis B immune globulin - Wait 12 months
  • Growth hormones - Usually permanent disqualification
  • Experimental medications - Case-by-case evaluation

🔬 Specific Medical Scenarios

Diabetes & Plasma Donation

Type 2 Diabetes (Controlled): You can donate if your diabetes is well-controlled with medication and/or diet. Requirements include:

  • A1C level under 7% (recent test required)
  • Stable medication regimen for 3+ months
  • No diabetic complications (neuropathy, retinopathy)
  • Blood sugar between 70-180 mg/dL at donation

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

Seizure-Free Period: You must be seizure-free for at least 3 years and stable on anti-seizure medication. This includes:

  • No seizures of any type for 36+ months
  • Stable on current medication dosage
  • Regular neurologist monitoring
  • No recent medication changes

Mental Health Conditions

Depression & Anxiety: Most people with treated mental health conditions can donate. Key factors:

  • Stable on approved antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs)
  • No recent medication changes or dosage adjustments
  • No recent hospitalizations for mental health
  • Able to provide informed consent

⚠️ IMPORTANT MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

This guide is for informational purposes only. Final eligibility decisions are always made by qualified medical professionals at plasma centers. Always disclose all medical conditions and medications during your medical screening.

❓ Medical Condition FAQ

Can I donate plasma if I take antidepressants?

Usually YES! Most common antidepressants (SSRIs like Zoloft, Lexapro, Prozac) are allowed as long as you're stable on the medication for at least 4 weeks.

What if I have controlled high blood pressure?

You can donate if your blood pressure is controlled under 180/100 mmHg with medication. Your blood pressure will be checked at each visit.

Can I donate with a pacemaker or medical implant?

Pacemakers and most medical implants are generally disqualifying due to potential interference with plasma collection equipment.

What about autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis?

Most autoimmune conditions are disqualifying because they affect immune system function and often require immunosuppressive medications.

Can I donate if I'm pregnant or recently gave birth?

No, pregnancy disqualifies donation. You must wait at least 6 weeks after delivery and 6 weeks after stopping breastfeeding.