Products
Tranexamic acid is commercially available in the form of film-coated tablets and effervescent tablets (Cyklokapron). It has been approved in many countries since 1968. In 2016, a solution for injection was also released. This article refers to peroral administration.
Structure and properties
Tranexamic acid (C8H15NO2, Mr = 157.2 g/mol) exists as a white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water. It is an aminoethylcyclohexane carboxylic acid and a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine.
Effects
Tranexamic acid (ATC B02AA02) has antifibrinolytic properties, that is, it reduces the cleavage of hemostatic fibrin. The effects are due to inhibition of the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, which is responsible for dissolution. The drug binds to various lysine binding sites on plasminogen and inhibits binding to fibrin. This reduces blood loss due to increased fibrinolytic activity. The half-life is short, approximately two hours.
Indications
For prevention and treatment of bleeding due to increased fibrinolysis:
- Removal of the prostate (prostatectomy).
- Operations of the urinary tract
- Hematuria (blood in the urine)
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (hypermenorrhea)
- Recurrent bleeding of the digestive tract.
- Ulcerative colitis
- Cervical conization
- Nosebleed
- After tooth extraction in patients with coagulopathies.
Hereditary angioneurotic edema
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is usually taken two to three times daily, regardless of meals.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
