I went to donate blood plasma last week, and during the medical exam I told them I was in pain management. I had to show them what medications I was on. Since I was on gabapentin, hydrocodone and flexiril I was told I would have to have my doctors consent to donate. My doctor filled out the necessary forms and cleared me to donate. The nurse and director of the center said even though the doctor had cleared me, they would not because of my hydrocodone use. When I asked for an explanation, I basically got a "because I said so" explanation. I would really like to know a medical explanation. Even the Mayo Clinic does not list hydrocodone as one of their "banned" medications for plasma donations.
Why can't I donate blood plasma since I'm on hydrocodone for pain management?
Question posted by hppyagn on 24 Aug 2016
Last updated on 26 November 2021 by PravinaSings
Answers
Ever think about the person who is getting your tainted blood? If said person is already being treated with narcotics, getting your blood might create an overdose for them. THINK before you donate without telling the nurse about the drugs you take. It might save someone's life.
I donate through the New York Blood Center. I currently take oxycodone, but even when I took Vicodin I was allowed to donate. It is not on their list of medicines that you are unable to donate if you take. Here they do no go over your medications with you, when you fill out the form you look at the list of medicines and answer yes or no to the question "Are you currently taking any of these medications". Look to see if another organization near you does blood donations.
Thanks for answering her question. I had the same thing happen to me today, I was surprised when they told me to stop taking my hydrocodone for 7 days & come back! Had I not written it down I doubt it would had been an issue. I found it odd but I'll go to another place tomorrow & not note my meds down, lol. Thanks again! I'm in Salt Lake City, Utah
Related topics
pain, gabapentin, hydrocodone, medical, medication, pain management, blood, management
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