Hemostat Capsule

Introduction

Hemostat Capsule 500 mg (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent that is used to reduce the clotting of blood and reduce bleeding. It is used to treat and prevent excessive menstrual bleeding in women, and to treat bleeding following trauma, surgery or childbirth.

Uses

Hemostat Capsule 500 mg is used to reduce bleeding after trauma, surgery or childbirth. It is also used to reduce excessive menstrual blood loss in women. In addition, this medication is used to treat and prevent nosebleeds, as well as to reduce the risk of bleeding in patients who are taking an anticoagulant such as warfarin.

Mechanism of Action

Tranexamic acid works by blocking enzymes that break down blood clots. This prevents clots from being degraded, which helps to reduce the risk of bleeding or further bleeding in people who are at risk.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Tranexamic acid begins to work within a few minutes of taking the medication. However, the full effect of the medication may take up to 24 hours to be seen.

Absorption

Tranexamic acid is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1 – 2 hours after dosing.

Route of Elimination

Tranexamic acid is rapidly eliminated from the body, with 50% of a dose excreted in the urine within 24 hours.

Dosage

Tranexamic acid is available in oral tablet or injection form. The dosage of tranexamic acid is based on the medical condition and response to treatment.

For Oral Administration

The usual dose is 1 – 2 tablets (1 – 2 g) taken 3 – 4 times daily.

For Intramuscular Injection

The usual dose is 1 – 2 g intramuscularly every 8 hours.

Administration

Tranexamic acid may be taken orally or given as an injection into the muscle.

Side Effects

Common side effects of tranexamic acid include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Other less common side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, and difficulty sleeping.

Toxicity

Tranexamic acid is generally well tolerated; however, it can be toxic in high doses or when taken for prolonged periods of time. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions

Before taking tranexamic acid, inform your doctor if you have a history of blood clots, kidney or liver disease, or any other medical condition. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

Tranexamic acid may interact with other medications such as warfarin, aspirin, and heparin. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting tranexamic acid, to ensure no interactions occur.

Food Interactions

It is best to avoid consuming alcohol when taking tranexamic acid as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Pregnancy Use

There is insufficient data available to assess the safety of tranexamic acid during pregnancy. Therefore, the use of tranexamic acid during pregnancy is not recommended.

Lactation Use

It is not known whether tranexamic acid passes into breastmilk. Therefore, the use of tranexamic acid while breastfeeding is not recommended.

Acute Overdose

Signs of an acute overdose include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and breathing difficulty. Seeking medical attention is advised if an overdose is suspected as tranexamic acid can be toxic in high doses.

Contraindication

Tranexamic acid is contraindicated in patients with a history of active thrombosis, or in patients who have a history of thromboembolic events. It is also contraindicated in patients with an active bleeding disorder, or with a history of allergic reaction to any component of tranexamic acid.

Use Directions

Tranexamic acid should be taken as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose, and do not take it for longer than prescribed. It is usually taken three or four times a day.