Tranexamic Acid
Description
Tranexamic Acid is a medication used to manage and stop excessive bleeding. It
is often prescribed to women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, helping to significantly reduce the amount of blood lost during their period. It is a non-hormonal option, making it a good choice for those who want to avoid or can't use hormone-based treatments like certain birth control pills. Tranexamic Acid works by temporarily blocking the enzyme that dissolves these blood clots. By keeping the clot stable for longer, TXA effectively reduces and controls bleeding. It's not just for heavy periods; it's also used in other situations where excessive bleeding needs to be controlled, like nosebleeds or after dental procedures in people with bleeding disorders.
Uses
Tranexamic acid is used to treat heavy bleeding during periods (menstruation). It is also used to treat the blood loss from trauma, surgery, tooth removal and nose bleed.
Contraindications
When should one not use Tranexamic Acid
- Allergic reaction due to tranexamic acid
- Have blood clot or history of blood clot
- Kidney disease
- History of fits
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Back pain
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Rash
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Vision disturbance
- Muscle pain
- Stomach pain
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Tranexamic Acid during pregnancy?
A:
Probably safe during pregnancy. This medicine should be used during pregnancy only if prescribed by your doctor or physician.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Tranexamic Acid while breastfeeding?
A:
It passes into breast milk in low quantities and is not recommended during breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Tranexamic Acid?
A:
No information is available on the ability to drive or use machines, however, if you observe or experience any side effect, it is advised not to drive or use machines. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Tranexamic Acid?
A:
No information is available on interactions of medicine when taken with alcohol. You may consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have any medical history, especially of: bleeding in the brain (subarachnoid hemorrhage), history of blood clots (such as in the legs, lung, brain, eye), certain heart diseases (irregular heartbeat, heart valve problems), blood clotting problems, kidney problems (including blood in the urine), irregular menstrual bleeding of unknown cause ...
- On long term use, regular eye check-up should be done
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
In response to any bleeding in the body, blood clots are formed. This medicine prevents blood clot from breaking too quickly. This helps in controlling excessive bleeding.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- This medicine interacts with hormonal birth control pills and this can increase the risk of blood clots.
- Anticoagulants like warfarin heparin that may decrease the tranexamic acid effect.
Interactions with food items
There is no food interaction that is reported with tranexamic acid.
Dosage
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness and vomiting, low blood pressure, fainting. Seek immediate emergency medical advice in case of an overdose.
Missed a Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember and then take your next dose at least 6 hours later. Do not take a double dose of medicine to make up for a missed one.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What special precautions should I follow?
A: Use tranexamic acid with caution in children and elderly as they are more sensitive to it.
Q: How do I take Tranexamic Acid for my period?
- For heavy periods, you typically take the tablets only when your period has started and you are actively bleeding as directed by your physician. Your doctor will give you specific instructions, but it's generally taken 2-3 times a day for up to 5 days during your menstrual cycle. Do not take it when you are not on your period. Only use it under strict medical supervision....
Q: When should I NOT take Tranexamic Acid?
- It is very important to tell your doctor about your medical history, as it is not safe for everyone. You should not take this medicine if you have:
- A history of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or a stroke.
- Certain serious eye problems related to blood clots.
- Certain kidney problems (your doctor may adjust the dose).
- Tell your doctor if you are using a combined hormonal birth control (like the pill, patch, or ring), as taking both can increase the risk of blood clots.
Q: What are the common side effects?
- Common side effects may include:
- Stomach or abdominal pain/discomfort
- Headache
- Muscle pain or stiffness
- Back pain
- Tiredness
- If you experience signs of a blood clot (such as sudden pain or swelling in your leg, shortness of breath, or sudden change in vision), seek medical help immediately.
References
View All
Share This With Your Friends
Recent articles
Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
Medicines containing Tranexamic Acid
+ View More Medicines
