Tranexamic acid

What is Tranexamic acid?

Tranexamic acid is a treatment that can be used for several different purposes, including heavy periods. It’s part of a group of drugs known as antifibrinolytics. It’s available in different forms like pills and injections. When prescribed for heavy periods, it’s usually given in the form of tablets.

Unlike other treatments for heavy periods, like Norethindrone and Medroxyprogesterone, Tranexamic acid doesn’t contain a hormone.

There are a variety of illnesses and conditions that can lead to excessive menstrual bleeding, but sometimes it can happen without any specific underlying cause. Treatments like Tranexamic acid can help with heavy periods, but it might not always address underlying factors if there are any. So if you’re having heavy periods for the first time or your menstrual habits have recently changed, you should see a doctor about them.

How does Tranexamic acid work?

Tranexamic acid works by inhibiting something called fibrinolysis. This is a normal process where blood clots in your body are broken down.

There are two kinds of fibrinolysis that take place in your body. Primary fibrinolysis is part of normal functioning. However, secondary fibrinolysis is the result of a medical condition or as a side effect of a medication.^[1] When someone has secondary fibrinolysis, it can cause them to bleed excessively up to the point of a massive hemorrhage.

Antifibrinolytic drugs like Tranexamic acid work to prevent blood clots from breaking down in fibrinolysis.^[2] They do this by inhibiting the enzymes that break down the fibrin that is essential in the formation of blood clots. The result is that the blood clots stay in place to allow wounds to heal.

What doses of Tranexamic acid are there?

Tranexamic acid pills are only available in 650 mg doses. If you’re still bleeding heavily despite being on tranexamic acid, you should get in touch with a physician. There may be a better treatment to help you control your bleeding.

How to take Tranexamic acid

It’s easy to take tranexamic acid pills. A doctor will most likely prescribe two pills for you to take three times each day. Simply swallow your pills whole with a glass of water, and carry on about your day.

If a physician has prescribed it for heavy periods, you will most likely take it for a maximum of five days each time you have a period.^[1] But make sure to follow the specific instructions given by your prescriber.

How long does it take Tranexamic acid to work?

It can take up to 24 hours for tranexamic acid to start working.^[1] Make sure you take it as directed by your doctor to prevent heavy bleeding.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Tranexamic acid?

Taking tranexamic acid as directed by a physician is very important. If you miss a dose, it shouldn’t make much of a difference unless you forget frequently. As soon as you remember your missed dose, you can take it. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip your missed dose and take it as normal.

If you miss your Tranexamic acid doses often, you should consider setting an alarm to help you remember.

Should you take more Tranexamic acid than you’re supposed to, it probably won’t harm you. There are side effects that you may experience, including diarrhea, dizziness, and feeling sick.