Drug Notes

Aminocaproic acid (By mouth)

Aminocaproic Acid (a-mee-noe-ka-PROE-ik AS-id)

Treats conditions that cause excessive bleeding. Also used to control bleeding during or after surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Amicar

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Liquid: Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
• Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the liquid.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how aminocaproic acid works. Tell your doctor if you are taking medicine to treat hemophilia (such as Factor IX), or activated prothrombin complex concentrate.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have hemophilia, anemia, or other problems with your blood. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart, liver, or kidney disease or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blood in your urine
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood
• Confusion, weakness, and muscle twitching
• Dark urine, decrease in how much or how often you urinate
• Slow or uneven heartbeat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Blurry vision, watery eyes
• Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Dizziness or headache
• Mild muscle pain, weakness, or fatigue
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017