Tranexamic Acid

What is Tranexamic Acid for?

Tranexamic acid is used to prevent or reduce excessive bleeding for a short period of time in many different conditions such as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or in those with certain disorders like haemophilia (a rare bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly).

This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-fibrinolytics, which prevents blood clots from breaking down and hence, reduces the amount of blood lost.

How should I take or use Tranexamic Acid?

• You may take this medication with or without food. However, if you experience stomach discomfort when taking the medication, you should take it after food.
• If you are taking tranexamic acid for heavy menstrual bleeding, do not start taking the medicine until your menses have started.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Tranexamic Acid?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Tranexamic Acid?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
• You have a history of or current medical conditions such as blood clots in your legs, arteries, lungs or anywhere else in your body, stroke, seizures (fits), or problems with your kidney.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Tranexamic Acid?

• Some medications might interact with this medication. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you want to take/give any other medicines, supplements or herbal products. 
• If you see another doctor, inform him that you are taking this medication before he prescribes any other medications.

What are some common side effects of Tranexamic Acid?

Common side effects include:

• Stomach discomfort
• Take it after food to minimise these side effects.
• Headache
• Muscle aches

Most of these side effects will get better or go away as your body gets used to the medication.

Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.

Very rarely, this medication may cause:

• Changes in eyesight e.g. blurred vision, changes in colour vision
• Tenderness or swelling in one leg, sudden breathlessness, or loss of feeling down one side of the body.

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

How should I store Tranexamic Acid?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight

How do I throw away Tranexamic Acid safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.