Tranexamic acid is used to prevent or reduce excessive bleeding for a short period of time in many different conditions such as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or in those with certain disorders like haemophilia . Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Tranexamic acid is used to prevent or reduce excessive bleeding for a short period of time in many different conditions such as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or in those with blood clotting disorders like haemophilia (a rare bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly).

This medication is known as an anti-fibrinolytic, which prevents blood clots from breaking down and hence, reduces the amount of blood lost.

How should I take or use this medication?

• You may take this medication with or without food. 
• If you are taking tranexamic acid for heavy menstrual bleeding, do not start taking the medicine until your menses have started.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
• You have a history of or current medical conditions such as blood clots in your legs, lungs or anywhere else in your body, stroke, seizures (fits), or kidney problems.

What are some common side effects of this medication?

Common side effects include:

• Stomach discomfort
  • Take it after food to reduce these side effects.
• Headache and muscle aches
  • You may take painkillers such as Paracetamol. 

Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Very rarely, this medication may cause:

• Changes in eyesight e.g. blurred vision, changes in colour vision.
• Blood clot in the blood vessel (thrombosis), which may cause severe pain or swelling in either one of your legs, sudden breathlessness or weakness or numbness in any part of your body. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

• Some medications might interact with this medication. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you want to take/give any other medicines, supplements or herbal products.
• If you see another doctor, inform him that you are taking this medication before he prescribes any other medications.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on December 2024.