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Can I still give blood?

I am 17 and one of my top things on my life's "to do" list is to give blood. However, I have prescribed medicine for epilepsy (I am currently on 200g of lamotrigine). I did the "Can you give blood?" survey on the website, and it said I may still be able to give blood even when taking certain medication. Is lamotrigine a no-go medicine in terms of giving blood? By the way, the main reason I am so set on giving blood, is because I have a rare blood type,AB negative. I know a lot of people don't donate this blood type, but I want to make a difference. :) Sorry, just to let answerers know, my Mum's friend works for the blood donor group in our local area, and the giving ages can be from 17 to 66. :) I just need the answer to the medication problem please!

Public Comments

1. giving blood is nice, but it is sad that it is one of your top things to do...
2. You have a very wise idea,but your are just 17 yo,you must be 18.
3. the medications you take should not interfere with blood donation. Granted lamotrigine has some narly side effects but the effects aren't stored and carried in the proteins in RBCs (red blood cells) or any of the other cells in your blood. If you want to be sure, before you donate blood - most blood banks or blood drawing centers will ask you to fill out a form and within it you will have to state if you are on any medications. IF there is a contraindication to blood donation , they will automatically tell you.
4. Try calling the Red Cross,as they always are conducting blood drives, or, your local fire department. Most places, your able to donate blood, but, the blood is tested for purities,etc. Before ever beong donated. I know, if your on medications, recently came from another country, or have a illness, could be a common cold, they may not draw blood anyway. Prior to drawing blood,your asked a few questions, and if answered truthfully, you may be turned down, but, blood that is donated, is tested, for purities,and to make sure what the blood type is.
5. There is no deferral as a volunteer blood donation due to your medication. However, most blood collection facilities require that the donor have been seizure free for the past year. Please contact your local blood center and speak with the Medical Director for specific eligibility guidelines.