Tranexamic Acid
Generic Details
Generic Name
Tranexamic Acid
Other Names
- AMCA
- Cyklokapron
- Transamin
Drug Class
- Antifibrinolytic
Chemical Formula
C8H15NO2
Molecular Weight
157.21 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits the activation of plasminogen to plasmin, preventing the breakdown of fibrin clots
Indications
- Menstrual bleeding
- Severe bleeding after childbirth
- Hemophilia
- Hereditary angioedema
- Surgery
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 1300 mg to 3900 mg per day in divided doses for adults
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage varies based on weight and age
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower starting doses may be recommended for the elderly
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tranexamic acid
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Pregnancy Category
- Category B - No evidence of risk in humans
Lactation Safety
- Considered compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- May potentiate the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Seizures
- Visual disturbances
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care and symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and almost complete from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body, including crossing the blood-brain barrier
- Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism
- Excretion: Mainly through the urine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of thromboembolic events
Warnings
- May increase the risk of thromboembolism
Others
- Tranexamic acid is also used off-label for conditions like melasma and epistaxis.