Tranexamic acid for heavy periods: what to know

The medicine does not contain hormones and is usually taken only during the bleeding days specified by your prescriber. It supports clot stability in the womb lining, so it can lessen blood loss without stopping the menstrual cycle itself. Heavy periods can have several causes, including fibroids, adenomyosis, polyps, hormonal changes around perimenopause, or a bleeding disorder. An assessment may also look for iron deficiency anaemia if bleeding has left you tired, breathless, dizzy, or unusually pale.

Follow the prescribed dose and schedule, and do not take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose without checking the instructions. Tell the prescriber about previous blood clots, kidney problems, vision changes, pregnancy plans, and all medicines, including hormonal contraception. Seek advice before using it if your periods have changed suddenly or bleeding occurs between periods or after sex. Keep a record of bleeding, clots, pain, and any side effects; this helps determine whether another treatment or investigation is needed.

Get urgent help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling or pain, or a sudden change in vision, because these can signal a serious reaction or clot. Arrange prompt medical review if bleeding is soaking through protection repeatedly, you feel faint, or severe pelvic pain accompanies the bleeding. Heavy periods that keep disrupting daily life deserve assessment even when tranexamic acid helps.

Ask what dose and timing suit your bleeding pattern, whether you need a blood count or iron test, and which symptoms should make you stop the medicine. You can also ask whether fibroids, adenomyosis, polyps, or another cause should be investigated.