Canterbury DHB

Context

Tranexamic Acid

Anti-fibrinolytic treatment.

This is a synthetic derivative of the aminoacid lysine. Tranexamic acid, 4 -(aminomethyl) cyclohexanecarboxylic acid has antifibrinolytic activity in humans by binding reversibly to plasminogen, therefore blocking the binding of plasminogen to fibrin and its consequent activation to plasmin. Tranexamic acid is approximately 10 times more potent than aminocaproic acid (Amicar). This agent is effective even when bleeding is not associated with laboratory evidence of accelerated fibrinolysis. Mechanism of action thought to be inhibition of tissue fibrinolysis and consequent stabilisation of clots.

Adult doses: 1 g six to eight-hourly oral for 5 to 14 days.

In This Section

Uses

Side Effects

Uses

Side Effects

Dose-dependent side effects are predominantly gastrointestinal tract including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Theoretical risk of thrombotic side effects.

Caution in liver disease.

See the tranexamic acid Data Sheets on Medsafe.

About this Canterbury DHB document (5306):

Document Owner:

Sean Macpherson (see Who's Who)

Last Reviewed:

November 2019

Next Review:

November 2022

Keywords:

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Topic Code: 5306