Drug Notes

Tranexamic acid (By mouth)

Tranexamic Acid (tran-ex-AM-ik AS-id)

Treats heavy monthly periods (menstrual cycles) in women.

Brand Name(s):

Lysteda

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Start taking this medicine when your monthly period starts. Do not take this medicine for more than 5 days during your period. Do not take more than 6 tablets in one day.
• Swallow the tablet whole with liquids. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose : If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. Wait at least 6 hours before you take another dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Do not use this medicine together with birth control that uses hormones, such as pills or a vaginal ring.
• Some medicines and foods can affect how tranexamic acid works. Tell your doctor if you are using oral tretinoin or a medicine that changes how your blood clots, such as factor IX.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, bleeding problems, or leukemia.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Higher risk of blood clots (which can lead to heart attack or stroke) when used with hormone birth control, such as pills or a patch
  • Eye and vision problems
• If this medicine does not reduce your bleeding after 2 menstrual cycles or if it seems to stop working, check with your doctor.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• 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
• Chest pain, trouble breathing, or coughing up blood
• Numbness or weakness on one side of your body, sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking
• Pain in your lower leg
• Trouble seeing, vision changes
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

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

• Muscle, joint, or back pain
• Runny or stuffy nose

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