Acne, isotretinoin (Accutane) and blood donation

Not right now, but most waits are short. Plain acne does not stop you. Oral isotretinoin does, donation waits until after the course, commonly a month past the last tablet. ## The short answer Isotretinoin stays in the body for weeks after the last dose and can harm an early pregnancy in a recipient, a rare but serious risk, so the wait is strict. Topical creams and face washes for acne are not a deferral. The wait applies to the oral capsule form. ## The usual wait Commonly 1 month after finishing oral isotretinoin; the centre confirms the date of your last dose. Nobody is turned away forever for most of these, the register will still be here when the wait ends. ## At the screening desk Tell the staff: Name the medicine and your last dose date exactly. That conversation is confidential and takes a minute, it exists so the medical officer can clear you safely on the day. Everyone meets the same basics: age 18,65, weight 50 kg+, haemoglobin on target, feeling well today. Men donate every 3 months, women every 4, the rest rules, simply. Not sure about your case? Try the Can I donate? checker or read who can donate and the deferral list in plain words. Still weighing it? Is blood donation safe? and the honest side-effects list are straight answers, not brochure talk. ## The one line that matters The medical officer at the centre makes the final call on the day, with your name, your file and your actual reading in front of them. Use this page to walk in informed, not to overrule anyone.