Tranexamic acid
NHS information about the medicine tranexamic acid, including what it's used for, who can take it, how to take it and side effects.
What tranexamic acid is for
Tranexamic acid helps prevent or reduce bleeding. It can be used:
- treat heavy periods
- stop nosebleeds
- prevent bleeding after some types of surgery or dental work, particularly if you have a condition such as haemophilia
How to take tranexamic acid
Tranexamic acid usually comes as tablets that you swallow whole with a glass of water.
How much you need to take and for how long depends on why you're taking it. You'll usually need to take it 2 to 3 times a day for a few days.
Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.
Side effects of tranexamic acid
Like all medicines, tranexamic acid can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
Common side effects of tranexamic acid include:
- diarrhoea
- feeling sick (nausea)
- being sick (vomiting)
Tranexamic acid will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery.
More about side effects
These are not all the side effects of tranexamic acid.
For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website
Who can and cannot take tranexamic acid
Most adults and children can take tranexamic acid.
But tranexamic acid is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:
- you've had an allergic reaction or other serious side effect from tranexamic acid before
- your periods are not regular
- you have had a blood clot before, or there's a history of blood clots in your family
- you have kidney problems
- you have a history of seizures (fits)
- you have diabetes
Before taking tranexamic acid, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions.
Breastfeeding and tranexamic acid
If you're breastfeeding, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using tranexamic acid.
It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects from medicine you're taking, but speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby.
Pregnancy and tranexamic acid
Tell your doctor or dentist if you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy while taking tranexamic acid. They may recommend a different medicine.
Tranexamic acid is not usually used during pregnancy because it may affect how your baby develops. But a doctor or dentist may recommend it if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Taking tranexamic acid with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with tranexamic acid.
This includes:
- medicines containing oestrogen, such as the combined pill or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- medicines to lower the risk of blood clots (anticoagulants), such as warfarin
- tamoxifen, a medicine used to treat breast cancer
Before taking tranexamic acid, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.
Food, drink and alcohol with tranexamic acid
You can eat and drink as normal while taking tranexamic acid.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- speak to a pharmacist or a doctor for advice
