Before taking any medication, including those containing tranexamic acid, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice.
What is Another Name for Tranexamic Acid?
Tranexamic acid is the official generic name for a synthetic medication used to control and prevent excessive bleeding. However, it is sold under several brand names, with the most common ones in the US being Cyklokapron® and Lysteda®. The different brand names often correlate with a specific formulation or intended use.
- Cyklokapron: This brand name typically refers to the intravenous (IV) form of tranexamic acid. It is used in hospital settings to manage severe bleeding, often in patients with hemophilia undergoing dental procedures or during or after certain surgeries to reduce blood loss.
- Lysteda: This brand is the oral tablet formulation, specifically indicated for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia.
- Evana Heavy Period Relief: This is another brand name for oral tranexamic acid, used in the UK for heavy menstrual bleeding.
- International Brands: Abroad, other brand names like Amixam, Hemostan, and Transamin also exist.
Beyond brand names, tranexamic acid also has a number of chemical synonyms that can appear in scientific or medical contexts, including trans-4-(Aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid and AMCA.
How Does Tranexamic Acid Work?
Tranexamic acid functions as an antifibrinolytic, meaning it prevents the breakdown of fibrin, a protein that forms the meshwork of a blood clot. The body has a natural process called fibrinolysis, where an enzyme called plasmin breaks down blood clots once they are no longer needed. Tranexamic acid, a synthetic lysine analog, competitively inhibits the activation of plasminogen to plasmin. By blocking this conversion, it stabilizes the blood clot and prevents its premature breakdown, thereby helping to stop the bleeding.
This mechanism makes it a valuable tool in situations where excessive bleeding occurs due to a hyperactive fibrinolytic system or when the body's natural clotting process needs extra support.
Common Uses and Applications
Tranexamic acid has several FDA-approved and off-label uses, depending on the formulation and clinical context. The versatility of administration (oral, intravenous, topical) allows it to be used in many scenarios.
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Oral tablets (Lysteda, Evana) are a standard treatment for heavy periods. They are typically taken for a limited duration during menstruation to help reduce blood loss.
- Dental Procedures in Hemophilia Patients: The intravenous form (Cyklokapron) is FDA-approved for short-term use in hemophilia patients undergoing tooth extractions to minimize bleeding. Topical solutions are also used in dental practices.
- Trauma and Surgery: In emergency medicine, IV tranexamic acid is administered within a specific timeframe following a traumatic injury with significant hemorrhage. Studies like the CRASH-2 trial have shown it can improve survival rates. It is also used during major surgeries, such as cardiac or orthopedic procedures, to reduce perioperative blood loss.
- Postpartum Hemorrhage: Medical organizations recommend tranexamic acid for women experiencing excessive bleeding after childbirth.
- Epistaxis (Nosebleeds): Topical or oral tranexamic acid can be used to manage recurrent or severe nosebleeds, with some formulations used as a mouthwash for oral bleeding.
- Hereditary Angioedema (HAE): It is sometimes used off-label as prophylaxis to reduce the frequency of attacks in patients with this condition.
- Melasma: Topical tranexamic acid has shown promise in treating skin hyperpigmentation, though this is considered an off-label use.
Safety Profile: Side Effects and Warnings
While generally well-tolerated, tranexamic acid is not without potential risks. The most significant concern is an increased risk of blood clots, especially in susceptible individuals.
- Blood Clot Risk: Tranexamic acid should not be used by individuals with a history of blood clots, a tendency to form them, or those taking hormonal birth control, as this combination significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other thrombotic events.
- Vision Problems: Rare but serious side effects include visual disturbances or changes in color vision. Patients taking this medication should report any vision changes to their doctor immediately.
- Common Side Effects: The oral form can cause mild to moderate side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and back pain. Intravenous administration can cause dizziness and low blood pressure if given too rapidly.
- Allergic Reactions: As with any medication, allergic reactions, though uncommon, are possible. Symptoms like hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
It is crucial for patients to discuss their full medical history and all current medications with their healthcare provider to ensure tranexamic acid is safe for them.
Comparison of Tranexamic Acid Products
Different tranexamic acid formulations exist to suit various medical needs. The table below highlights the key differences between the major US brand names.
| Feature | Cyklokapron (IV) | Lysteda (Oral Tablet) | Generic Oral Tranexamic Acid | Other Brands (e.g., Evana) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Administration | Intravenous injection | Oral tablet | Oral tablet | Oral tablet, others |
| Primary Use | Surgical bleeding, hemophilia-related bleeding, trauma, postpartum hemorrhage | Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) | Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) | Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) |
| Dosage Form | Solution for injection | Tablets | Tablets | Varies by country/brand |
| Typical Dosage | Varies by condition and patient factors | Specific regimen prescribed by a doctor | Specific regimen prescribed by a doctor | Varies internationally |
| Cost | Varies; generally higher due to IV administration | Varies; brand name is typically more expensive | Lower cost than brand-name versions | Varies internationally |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, dizziness, hypotension | Headache, back pain, menstrual cramps | Headache, back pain, menstrual cramps | Headache, back pain, menstrual cramps |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tranexamic Acid Formulation
Understanding the various names and formulations of tranexamic acid is essential for both patients and healthcare providers. While the active ingredient remains the same, the method of delivery is specifically tailored to different medical conditions. For severe, acute bleeding in a hospital setting, Cyklokapron (IV) is the standard. For managing heavy menstrual cycles at home, the oral tablet, Lysteda or its generic form, is typically prescribed. Generic forms offer a lower-cost alternative to brand names, providing an effective option for many patients. The choice of formulation and appropriate use is a critical decision that should always be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. Further reliable information can be found at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) on the StatPearls website.
