What should you know about oral tranexamic acid?

Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic medicine. It slows the breakdown of clots where bleeding is occurring, which can make menstrual bleeding lighter or help control bleeding in selected situations. It does not treat every cause of heavy bleeding, and it is not a hormone treatment.

A clinician may ask about previous blood clots, kidney problems, vision symptoms, pregnancy, and medicines that affect clotting. These details help determine whether another approach is safer or more appropriate.

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed and do not share leftover tablets. Tell the prescriber about combined hormonal contraception, anticoagulants, kidney disease, or a personal or family history of clotting problems. If a dose is missed, follow the instructions supplied with your prescription rather than doubling the next dose.

For heavy periods, keep a simple record of bleeding, pain, dizziness, and any change after treatment. This helps the clinician assess whether the underlying cause needs further evaluation. Learn more in Tranexamic Acid and the treatment pages for Tranexamic Acid for Heavy Bleeding and Tranexamic Acid for Melasma.

Get urgent medical help for sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling or pain, a new severe headache, weakness on one side, or sudden changes in vision. Seek prompt advice if bleeding remains heavy, you feel faint, or the medicine causes a reaction such as facial swelling or trouble breathing.

Ask what cause of bleeding is being treated, how long to use the medicine, which symptoms should prompt a stop, and whether your contraception or other medicines change the plan.