Can you donate blood if you take blood thinners?
Generally not while you are taking them. Anticoagulants such as warfarin, apixaban (Eliquis) and rivaroxaban (Xarelto) lead to deferral, because of bleeding risk and the underlying condition.
Blood thinners change how your blood clots, so people taking them are generally deferred from donating.
Why they block donation
- They raise the risk of prolonged bleeding at the needle site
- They point to an underlying condition (atrial fibrillation, blood clots, a mechanical valve) that may itself affect eligibility
- The collected blood could carry the drug
Examples
| Medicine | Situation |
|---|---|
| Warfarin (Coumadin) | Deferred while taking it |
| Apixaban (Eliquis) | Deferred while taking it |
| Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) | Deferred while taking it |
| Dabigatran (Pradaxa) | Deferred while taking it |
| Injectable heparin | Deferred while taking it |
Low dose aspirin
Daily low dose aspirin usually does not stop whole blood donation. Platelet donation has stricter aspirin rules.
After you stop
If your doctor has stopped the blood thinner, the center sets a waiting time after the last dose that depends on the drug, and it also considers why you were taking it.
Important
Never stop a blood thinner on your own so you can donate. The risk of a clot or stroke is real. Talk to your doctor before changing any treatment.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a health professional. Your eligibility is always decided at the donor screening on the day of donation. Rules change, so confirm with the American Red Cross or the blood center where you plan to donate.