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Tranexamic acid

If you are being treated for hereditary angioneurotic oedema, you will need regular eye checks and blood tests to check your liver.
If you experience a change in your colour vision stop taking the tablets and see your doctor.

About tranexamic acid

Type of medicine	Antifibrinolytic
Used for	Prevention of heavy bleeding such as heavy periods, nose bleeds Prevention of bleeding during tooth extraction in haemophiliacs (people who lack a clotting factor) Hereditary angioneurotic oedema (excess fluid around the body)
Also called	Cyklokapron
Available as	Tablets Injection

Tranexamic acid works by increasing clot formation, therefore it is useful in stopping severe blood loss.

Before taking tranexamic acid

Before taking tranexamic acid make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you have a history of thromboembolic disease (where a blood clot forms and travels in the bloodstream).
If you have kidney problems.
If you suffer from undiagnosed irregular menstrual bleeding.

How to take tranexamic acid

Take exactly as directed by your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

If you are being treated for hereditary angioneurotic oedema, you will need regular eye checks and blood tests to check your liver.

Can tranexamic acid cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine	What can I do if I experience this
Nausea, vomiting	Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If you are sick, drink plenty of liquid.
Diarrhoea	Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids.

Important: If you experience sudden slurred speech, loss of co-ordination, pain in the chest or groin or leg you should contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Important: If you experience a change in your colour vision stop taking the tablets and see your doctor.

How to store tranexamic acid

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

DocID:
3242

DocRef:
dils2117

Last Updated:
16 Aug 2007

Date of Next Review:
15 Aug 2009

Version:
22

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest.

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