Tranexamic acid

What is tranexamic acid?

Tranexamic acid is a medicine that helps control bleeding by helping the blood to clot. It belongs to a class of drugs called antifibrinolytics[1]. 

What is tranexamic acid used to treat?

Tranexamic acid is commonly used to treat or prevent bleeding in various conditions, including[1]: 

• Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) 

• Surgical bleeding 

• Trauma-related bleeding 

• Hereditary angioedema  

• Nose bleeds 

• Dental procedures 

How does tranexamic acid work?

Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic agent that works by inhibiting the breakdown of fibrin in blood clots, helping to reduce bleeding[1]. 

Who can take tranexamic acid?

Tranexamic acid is suitable for most adults and children when prescribed by a doctor or clinician[1]. 

Tranexamic acid is also available over the counter for most adults over the age of 18 to specifically manage heavy periods without the need for a GP appointment. However, you will need to speak to the pharmacist to confirm it is the right treatment for you[1]. 

Those who tranexamic may not be appropriate for include those who[1]: 

• have ever had an allergic reaction to tranexamic acid 

• have a history of blood clots, stroke, or certain eye conditions 

• have severe kidney disease 

• Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding women (unless advised by a doctor) 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before starting tranexamic acid, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

How do you take tranexamic acid?

Tranexamic acid tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They can be taken with or after food. Try to space the doses out evenly throughout the day[1].  

What is the typical dosage of tranexamic acid?

Each tablet contains 500mg of tranexamic acid. The usual dose is 2 to 3 tablets taken three times a day, but this may vary depending on your condition and how you respond to treatment[1]. 

Can you stop taking tranexamic acid?

Tranexamic acid is usually prescribed to be taken short term; however, it is advised to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you would like to stop your medication mid treatment[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much tranexamic acid?

If you take too much tranexamic acid, you may get side effects such as dizziness, nausea and diarrhoea[1]. 

Call 111 or seek urgent medical attention if you’ve taken too much tranexamic acid, and you have problems with your eyesight or you develop signs and symptoms of a blood clot. These include: 

• Swelling, in one arm or leg.  

• Pain or tenderness in the calf, thigh, or forearm which may feel like a cramp or persistent ache. It may worsen when standing or walking. 

• The skin over the swollen area may feel warmer than the surrounding skin. 

• The area may appear red, purple or bluish. 

• There may be a tight or heavy feeling in the affected area, particularly when it is the calf or thigh. 

• Veins may become more visible or appear swollen[1]. 

Call 999 or go to A&E if you’ve taken too much tranexamic acid and you get shortness of breath, or sharp pain in your chest as this may indicate a blood clot has moved to the lungs. This is called pulmonary embolism[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take a dose of tranexamic acid?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time[1]. 

What are the side effects of tranexamic acid?

There are no reported common side effects in tranexamic acid. 

Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people. They include[1]: 

• Vision problems 

• One of your arms or legs is painful, swollen and red – signs of a blood clot 

• Signs of blood clots in lungs (e.g. coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath) 

For any of these symptoms, call 999 or go to A&E immediately. 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Medicines you can and can’t take with tranexamic acid

There are some medications which may not be appropriate to take at the same time as tranexamic acid[1]: 

• Hormonal contraceptives (e.g., birth control pills) – may increase risk of blood clots 

• Other antifibrinolytics 

• Medications affecting blood clotting (e.g., warfarin) 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about tranexamic acid

Can I take tranexamic acid with birth control? 
Tranexamic acid does not affect any type of contraceptive pill. However, there is a small increased risk of blood clots if you take tranexamic acid. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist to discuss alternatives[1]. 

Does it stop periods? 
Tranexamic acid does not stop periods entirely. It is used to reduce the amount of blood in those who suffer heavy periods[1]. 

Is tranexamic acid a blood thinner? 
Tranexamic acid does not thin the blood, instead, it helps reduce bleeding by slowing down the breakdown of blood clots, which are your body’s natural way of stopping bleeding[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to tranexamic acid, visit their website.