Quick Answer
Most antidepressants are allowed
Can You Donate Plasma on Antidepressants?
Yes, most antidepressants don't disqualify you from plasma donation in 2026. Key points:
- SSRIs: Generally allowed
- SNRIs: Generally allowed
- Most medications: Not an issue
- Stable condition: Important factor
Common Antidepressants - Usually Allowed
| Medication | Type | Can Donate? |
|---|---|---|
| Zoloft (sertraline) | SSRI | YES |
| Lexapro (escitalopram) | SSRI | YES |
| Prozac (fluoxetine) | SSRI | YES |
| Celexa (citalopram) | SSRI | YES |
| Paxil (paroxetine) | SSRI | YES |
| Effexor (venlafaxine) | SNRI | YES |
| Cymbalta (duloxetine) | SNRI | YES |
| Wellbutrin (bupropion) | NDRI | YES |
| Trazodone | SARI | YES |
| Mirtazapine | NaSSA | YES |
When Mental Health Might Affect Eligibility
The medication usually isn't the issue, but:
- Recent hospitalization: May need waiting period
- Active crisis: Donation may not be appropriate
- New medication: Should be stabilized first
- Severe symptoms: May affect screening
Medications That May Defer
- Antipsychotics: Some centers ask about these
- Lithium: May require case-by-case review
- MAOIs: Older antidepressants, check with center
Condition vs. Medication
Centers care more about stability than the medication:
- Stable depression: On meds, functioning well = eligible
- Active crisis: May need to focus on health first
- Well-managed anxiety: Usually not an issue
- Bipolar (stable): Often eligible if stable
Tips for Donors on Antidepressants
- Be honest: Disclose medications if asked
- Take your meds: Don't skip for donation
- Be stable: Wait until meds are working well
- Watch for side effects: Know how you react
- Stay hydrated: Some meds increase dehydration
Screening Questions
Centers may ask about:
- Hospitalizations: Psychiatric admissions
- Current stability: How you're doing now
- Medication changes: Recent adjustments
- Specific medications: Varies by center
Frequently Asked Questions
Will they know I'm on antidepressants?
Only if you tell them. Plasma tests don't screen for antidepressants. But being honest is important for your safety and eligibility.
I just started antidepressants - can I donate?
It's best to wait until you're stabilized on your medication (usually 4-6 weeks) before donating. This ensures you tolerate the medication well.
Do antidepressants affect plasma quality?
SSRIs and similar medications don't negatively affect plasma quality for manufacturing purposes. Your plasma is still valuable.
Never stop taking antidepressants to donate plasma. Your mental health comes first.
This is just one piece of the puzzle. For everything you need to know about plasma donation in 2026—earnings, centers, eligibility, and pro tips—check out our comprehensive resource: