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Tranexamic Acid: Effective Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Flow


Tranexamic Acid: Effective Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Flow

Tranexamic Acid: Effective Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Flow

Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common complaint among women at any stage from puberty to menopause. It can cause embarrassment and frustration and even interfere with daily activities.

Research published in the Journal of Mid-Life Health defines it quantitatively as bleeding per cycle above the clinical threshold of 80 ml.

Tranexamic acid, an antifibrinolytic that slows the breakdown of blood clots is one option to consider for treating menorrhagia in the absence of any concerning pathologies. Prescribing tranexamic acid for heavy periods is an effective, non-invasive way to reduce abnormal bleeding.

How Tranexamic Acid Works

  • Tranexamic acid is used to reduce bleeding in other medical applications, such as postoperatively in dentistry. This antifibrinolytic is specifically a competitive plasminogen inhibitor that improves blood clotting by preventing fibrinolysis and plasmin formation in menstrual fluid.
  • It has been used for more than 40 years in many parts of Europe, according to the International Journal of Women’s Health study. More recent extended-release oral formulas have a longer absorption time compared to earlier methods of administration, which helps to reduce any uncomfortable gastrointestinal side effects.
  • Research published in American Family Physician advises that tranexamic acid should only be taken during menstruation, for up to five days. It can reduce the amount of menstrual blood lost, but cannot shorten the length of menstruation or reduce menstrual symptoms such as cramping or pain. Tranexamic acid is well tolerated by patients and has few adverse side effects.
  • The significant effect that heavy menstrual bleeding can have on a patient’s quality of life is one of the main reasons why dramatic treatments like hysterectomy or ablation are considered.
  • This is especially true if previous treatments have not been effective. Fortunately, tranexamic acid for heavy periods is a nonhormonal solution that works quickly and is easy to use. This treatment can help providers avoid the potential complications of surgery while working to help their patients find effective menorrhagia relief.

Who can take tranexamic acid

  • Most adults and children of all ages can take tranexamic acid if it’s prescribed by a doctor.
  • Adults aged 18 years old and over can also take tranexamic acid bought from a pharmacy without a prescription for treating heavy periods.

Who may not be able to take tranexamic acid

Tranexamic acid is not suitable for some people. To make sure it’s safe for you, tell your doctor before taking this medicine if you:

  • have ever had an allergic reaction to tranexamic acid or any other medicine
  • have ever had a blood clot in a vein (deep vein thrombosis) or your lungs (pulmonary embolism)
  • have had a coagulopathy – a rare condition where lots of small blood clots form in your blood followed by abnormal bleeding
  • have epilepsy
  • have kidney problems
  • are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • have irregular periods – this is so your doctor can check what is causing the irregular bleeding and recommend the best treatment for you

Dosage

  • Tranexamic acid comes in 500mg tablets. For adults, the usual dose is 2 or 3 tablets, taken 3 times a day. Doses are usually lower for people with kidney problems.
  • The liquid comes in different strengths. Follow the instructions on the label to make sure you take the right dose.

Changes to your dose

  • Most people taking tranexamic acid take 2 tablets (1,000mg), 3 times a day.
  • If this is not working well enough to control your bleeding, your doctor may tell you to take 2 tablets 4 times a day.

How to take it

  • You can take tranexamic acid tablets or liquid with or without food.
  • Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water.
  • If you’re taking the liquid, it will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.

How long to take it for

  •  You’ll usually take this medicine for 4 days for heavy periods, or for 7 days to treat other bleeding that does not stop by itself.
  • If you have a condition such as hereditary angioedema you may need to take it when needed, for example when you have a procedure such as dental treatment.

Can I take it for a long time?

  • If you have regular nosebleeds or heavy periods you can take tranexamic acid long-term, over several months or years. However, you’ll usually take it just for a few days or a week at a time when the bleeding is a problem.

Are there similar medicines to tranexamic acid?

  • other medicines are used to stop bleeding. However, they do not work in the same way as tranexamic acid.
  • Etamsylate can be prescribed for heavy periods, but it may not work as well as tranexamic acid and it’s not licensed as a medicine in the UK.
  • Desmopressin is used for severe bleeding if you have haemophilia or von Willebrand disease, conditions that can make you bleed more easily.

Can tranexamic acid be used for skin discolouration?

  • Tranexamic acid has been tested to treat skin discolouration in people with hyperpigmentation (melasma).
  • However it’s too early to know how well this works as a skin-lightening treatment for hyperpigmentation.

Will it affect my contraception?

  • Tranexamic acid does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.
  • However, talk to your doctor if you’re taking the combined pill.

Summary

Tranexamic acid offers a safe, effective, and non-hormonal solution for managing heavy menstrual bleeding, providing relief for many women without the need for invasive procedures. While it may not address other menstrual symptoms like pain or cramping, its ability to reduce excessive blood loss can significantly improve quality of life. As with any medication, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine if tranexamic acid is the right option, particularly for those with underlying health conditions or irregular bleeding.

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