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Tranexamic acid

Sounds like TRAN-ex-AM-ik AS-id

Key points about tranexamic acid

Tranexamic acid is used to reduce or stop heavy bleeding.
Tranexamic acid is also called Cyklokapron®.
Find out how to take it safely and possible side effects.

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Tranexamic acid is used to reduce or stop heavy bleeding caused by heavy menstrual periods, nose bleeds, dental procedures or surgery (operations). Tranexamic acid works by slowing the breakdown of clots. When you bleed your body forms blood clots to stop the bleeding. In some people, these clots break down (or dissolve) causing too much bleeding. By slowing the breakdown of clots tranexamic acid prevents further bleeding. In New Zealand, tranexamic acid is available as tablets (500 mg) and can also be given as an injection in the hospital.

The usual dose of tranexamic acid is 2 or 3 tablets taken two or three times a day.
Some people may need higher doses.
Always take your tranexamic acid exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much tranexamic acid to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.

Take your tranexamic acid tablets at the same times each day.
Swallow your tablets with a glass of water.
You can take tranexamic acid with or without food.
If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember but if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Do not take double the dose.

Like all medicines tranexamic acid can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Side effects	What should I do?
Feeling sick (nausea) Vomiting Diarrhoea (loose stools)	These are quite common when you first start taking tranexamic acid and usually go away with time Tell your doctor if troublesome – they may suggest reducing the dose.
Feeling faint or dizzy	Stand up slowly. If you do feel dizzy sit-down, or lie down for a bit. Do not drive until you feel better.
Problems with your eyesight such as changes in your colour vision	Tell your doctor immediately or ring HealthLine 0800 611 116
Signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, blisters, peeling skin, swelling of the face, lips, mouth or have problems breathing	Tell your doctor immediately or ring HealthLine 0800 611 116
Signs of clots in the legs or the lung such as swelling, redness or cramping in the legs, or shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain	Tell your doctor immediately or ring HealthLine 0800 611 116
Read more about medicines and side effects and reporting a reaction you think might be a side effect.