Quick Answer
Hypothyroidism doesn't disqualify you
Can You Donate Plasma With Hypothyroidism?
Yes, hypothyroidism typically doesn't disqualify you from plasma donation in 2026:
- Common condition: Millions of Americans have it
- Thyroid medication OK: Levothyroxine is acceptable
- Not contagious: Can't spread through plasma
- Well-managed: Most people do fine on medication
Why Hypothyroidism Doesn't Disqualify
- Hormone deficiency: Just needs replacement therapy
- Not infectious: Thyroid conditions aren't contagious
- Stable treatment: Most people well-controlled
- Blood quality: Doesn't affect plasma safety
Thyroid Medications
| Medication | Can Donate? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Levothyroxine (Synthroid) | YES | Most common, no issues |
| Levothyroxine (Levoxyl) | YES | Brand variation, acceptable |
| Tirosint | YES | Gel cap form, OK |
| Armour Thyroid | YES | Desiccated thyroid, acceptable |
| NP Thyroid | YES | Natural thyroid, OK |
| Liothyronine (Cytomel) | YES | T3 medication, acceptable |
Thyroid Levels and Donation
Your TSH levels don't directly affect eligibility:
- No TSH test: Centers don't check thyroid levels
- Well-controlled preferred: Better for your health
- Symptoms matter: Don't donate if feeling unwell
- Energy levels: Low thyroid = fatigue = skip donation
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Autoimmune hypothyroidism:
- Can donate: Hashimoto's doesn't disqualify
- Same rules: Just treated with levothyroxine
- Common cause: Most common cause of hypothyroidism
- Stable condition: Usually well-managed
Donation Tips for Hypothyroidism
- Take your medication: Keep your levels stable
- Feel well: Don't donate if fatigued or symptomatic
- Disclose condition: Mention it during screening
- Regular labs: Keep your thyroid monitored
- Stay warm: Hypothyroidism = cold sensitivity
- No dose changes: Stick to your regular dose
Symptoms to Watch
Skip donation if experiencing:
- Extreme fatigue: Uncontrolled hypothyroidism
- Brain fog: Cognitive symptoms
- Cold intolerance: Severe sensitivity
- Heart rate changes: Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Recent dose change: Wait until stable
Related Conditions
| Condition | Can Donate? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hashimoto's | YES | Autoimmune thyroiditis |
| Hyperthyroidism | Usually YES | If controlled |
| Graves' disease | Usually YES | If stable and treated |
| Thyroid nodules | YES | Benign nodules OK |
| Thyroid cancer (history) | Maybe | Depends on treatment, remission |
| Thyroidectomy | YES | If on stable replacement |
Post-Thyroidectomy
After thyroid removal:
- Can donate: Once healed and stable
- Replacement therapy: You'll be on levothyroxine
- Wait until stable: After surgery recovery
- Cancer history: Discuss with center if relevant
Frequently Asked Questions
I just started thyroid medication - can I donate?
It's best to wait until you're on a stable dose and feeling well. This usually takes 4-8 weeks after starting or adjusting medication. Once your energy levels are normal and you feel good, you're likely ready.
Will they test my thyroid levels?
No, plasma centers don't test thyroid hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4). They test hemoglobin/hematocrit, protein, and screen for infectious diseases. Your thyroid status is your responsibility to manage.
My hypothyroidism makes me tired - should I skip donating?
If you're experiencing significant fatigue from uncontrolled hypothyroidism, yes, skip donating until you feel better. Donation may make fatigue worse, and you should prioritize getting your thyroid levels optimized.
I have both hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's - is that OK?
Yes, Hashimoto's is simply the autoimmune cause of hypothyroidism. Both conditions together don't change your eligibility - you can still donate as long as you're on stable treatment and feeling well.
Does hypothyroidism affect my iron levels?
Hypothyroidism can sometimes be associated with anemia. If you're borderline on iron, work with your doctor. Centers test hematocrit each visit - as long as you pass, you can donate.
Hypothyroidism is one of the most common conditions that doesn't affect plasma donation eligibility. Just keep taking your thyroid medication as prescribed, and donate when you're feeling well!
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: