Tranexamic acid for inhalation

Inhaled tranexamic acid delivers medicine into the airways rather than swallowing it. It may be considered in selected situations involving bleeding from the respiratory tract, but coughing blood can have causes that need urgent investigation. A nebuliser or other device must be compatible with the prescribed preparation, and the treatment plan may include assessment of oxygen levels, chest symptoms, and the source of bleeding. Do not put tablets or oral liquid into an inhaler or nebuliser unless a specialist has explicitly instructed you.

Use only the formulation and device supplied or approved for you, following the full instructions for preparation, cleaning, and disposal. Sit upright during treatment and keep a record of worsening cough, breathlessness, chest discomfort, or recurrent blood. Tell the treating team about kidney disease, previous clots, asthma, allergies, and medicines that affect clotting. Never share a nebuliser mouthpiece or substitute a different medicine because the packaging looks similar.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, chest pain, or coughing up a large or rapidly increasing amount of blood. Urgent assessment is also needed for new one-sided leg swelling, sudden vision changes, or symptoms that continue despite treatment. Do not drive yourself if you are struggling to breathe or feel faint.

Ask why inhaled tranexamic acid is being considered, which device and preparation to use, how to clean it, and when to stop. Confirm who should review recurrent blood in sputum and what to do if a treatment dose is missed.