Tranexamic Acid
Indications for use
- Reduction of heavy menstrual bleeding over several cycles in women with regular, 21-35 day cycles with no more than 3 days individual variability in cycle duration
Age
- 18-45 years (see below for further information on the 45 year age limit)
Dose/Directions
- Once heavy bleeding has started, 2 tablets 3 times daily. If there is very heavy menstrual bleeding, can take an extra 2 tablets at night
- Max dose of 4g daily (8 tablets)
Duration
- Maximum of 4 days (in the one menstrual cycle). Patients should consult their doctor if menstrual bleeding is not reduced after three menstrual cycles
Contra-indications/referral criteria
- Mild to moderate renal insufficiency
- Hypersensitivity to tranexamic acid or any of the excipients
- Active thromboembolic disease
- A previous thromboembolic event and a family history of thrombophilia
- Haematuria
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Patients being administered warfarin or other anticoagulants
- Patients taking oral contraceptives
- Pregnancy
- Severe renal impairment (risk of accumulation)
- History of convulsions
- are over 45 years
- are obese or diabetic
- have polycystic ovary syndrome or a history of endometrial cancer in a first-degree relative
- are receiving unopposed oestrogen or tamoxifen
Examples of drug interactions
- Fibrinolytic medicines eg alteplase
Side-effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Other pertinent information
- Patients who experience visual disturbance or a skin rash should be withdrawn from treatment
- Available as Evana Heavy Period Relief 500 mg tablets (Maxwellia). The original OTC brand (Cyklo-F, Meda) has been discontinued
- Reclassified POM→P: 2010