Giving blood is something we can do to help save a life or even several. Donating blood can also directly benefit you, as it can make your heart and vascular system healthier! It is also linked to a lower risk of heart attacks and lower blood pressure.
Blood donations are commonly used for surgery, transfusions for blood loss, and cancer treatment. Giving blood can help our emotional well-being as it makes us feel better about ourselves, and did you know that donating one pint of blood burns up to 650 calories?
With marijuana still being categorized as a schedule I illegal substance by the federal government, it is valid to wonder if cannabis use can impact one’s ability to donate blood. Thankfully, in most situations, it will not interfere with your eligibility to donate.
As long as you are not impaired at the time of your donation, you will be able to donate. The American Red Cross does not test blood donations for THC, so frequent cannabis users can give blood without a problem.
According to the American Red Cross, “While the Red Cross does not encourage the use of controlled substances, marijuana or alcohol use does not necessarily disqualify you from giving blood as long as you are feeling well.”
Blood Donation Requirements
Although marijuana use does not disqualify you from donating blood, there are other things that may. Here is a current list of requirements for giving blood according to the American Red Cross:
-Must be 16 years old or older and weigh at least 110 pounds
-Must not have any type of blood-borne virus
-Certain cancers or history of cancers may disqualify you
-If you have had a blood transfusion in the last 3 months, you cannot donate
-You cannot be pregnant or nursing
-You cannot be ill or have low iron
-You cannot be on antibiotics
If you have EVER injected any illegal drugs, you can never give blood, according to the American Red Cross.
Tobacco and Nicotine Product Use
Both nicotine and tobacco contain many harmful chemicals that may affect your blood. However, use of these products do not disqualify you from blood donation.
Blood banks normally request that people who use tobacco or nicotine products refrain from use for a few hours before they give blood.
Try Medical Marijuana Today
The bottom line is you can donate blood no matter how often you use marijuana, as long as you are not impaired at the time of your donation. In the State of West Virginia, you need your marijuana card in order to access any medical dispensaries.
If you think you may benefit from medical marijuana, what are you waiting for? It is now easier than ever to get your card with telemedicine. You can attend your appointment with our certified physicians from the comfort of your own home!
Being a West Virginia medical marijuana patient allows you the freedom to establish your own personalized treatment plan. We’re dedicated to helping patients every step of the way!
Feel free to give us a call at 877-303-8424 and we can answer your questions about getting a medical marijuana card in West Virginia.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
West Virginia Marijuana Card’s mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at 877-303-8424, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!