Can I donate blood if I took aspirin?
What this means
- Whole blood: aspirin is generally fine.
- Platelets: you typically need to be aspirin-free for about two days beforehand.
- If your platelet appointment is affected, the center may switch you to whole blood that day.
What to do next
If you want to give platelets, plan your last aspirin a couple of days ahead, or book whole blood instead.
When to call the center: Call if you take daily aspirin and want to donate platelets.
Why this rule exists
Aspirin reduces how well platelets clump, which matters only for platelet donation.
By donation type: This restriction is specific to platelet donation.
This is general educational guidance, not a final eligibility decision. Donation centers make final eligibility decisions during confidential screening. Rules may vary by center, donation type, location, and current policy.
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Related questions
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Read the full pledgeSources and review
The guidance on this page reflects published criteria from these organizations. Eligibility and procedures vary by center and country, so confirm specifics with your donation center.
- American Red Cross
- AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Blood Donation
- Canadian Blood Services
- Last reviewed:
- Next review due:
- Reviewed by:
- Reviewed against American Red Cross, AABB, and U.S. FDA donor guidance
- Confidence:
- High confidence