Finasteride Use and Plasma Donation Restrictions
Individuals taking finasteride (or dutasteride) should not donate plasma due to the risk of teratogenic effects on female recipients of childbearing age, as these medications can persist in plasma and potentially harm a developing fetus. 1, 2
Why Finasteride is Restricted in Plasma Donation
Finasteride, a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor used to treat male pattern baldness and benign prostatic hyperplasia, has specific properties that make it problematic for plasma donation:
Teratogenic potential: Finasteride can cause abnormalities in male fetal development if pregnant women are exposed to it 2
Persistence in plasma: Despite its relatively short half-life of 4.7-7.1 hours 3, finasteride can remain detectable in plasma beyond the expected elimination period
Documented presence in donor plasma: Research has found measurable levels of finasteride in donor plasma specimens, with some exceeding recommended deferral periods 2
Scientific Evidence Supporting the Restriction
A key study analyzed stored blood specimens from donors who had taken teratogenic drugs and whose blood was transfused to women of childbearing age. The researchers found:
- 7 specimens contained detectable finasteride
- 1 specimen contained finasteride beyond the recommended drug deferral period 2
This evidence supports the concern that finasteride can persist in plasma and potentially be transferred to recipients.
Plasma Donation vs. Whole Blood Donation
It's important to understand the distinction:
- Plasma donation: Specifically restricted for finasteride users due to the high concentration of the drug in plasma
- Whole blood donation: May have different guidelines depending on the blood collection agency, as red blood cell components typically contain less than 50ml of plasma 1
Deferral Period Guidelines
For medications with teratogenic potential like finasteride:
- A deferral period is required for all blood products
- The standard approach for teratogenic drugs is to wait until the drug is completely eliminated from the body 1
- For finasteride specifically, the deferral period is based on its pharmacokinetic properties
Alternative Options for Individuals on Finasteride
If you're taking finasteride and wish to help others through donation:
Consider whole blood donation: Check with your local blood center as policies may differ for whole blood versus plasma donation
Temporary discontinuation: If you wish to donate plasma, consult with your healthcare provider about temporarily stopping finasteride, considering the appropriate deferral period
Other ways to contribute: Consider volunteering at blood drives or encouraging others to donate if you cannot donate yourself
Conclusion
The restriction on plasma donation while taking finasteride is a necessary safety measure to protect potential recipients, particularly pregnant women or women of childbearing age who might receive plasma products. This policy aligns with the fundamental principle of "do no harm" in medical practice and ensures the safety of blood products.