Tranexamic acid is a prescription medication used to manage heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). It belongs to the class of drugs known as antifibrinolytic agents. Tranexamic acid helps control heavy menstrual bleeding by preventing the breakdown of blood clots within the uterus during menstruation.

Tranexamic acid is available in its generic form or under the brand name Lysteda.

This medication can only be obtained with a prescription, meaning you must have a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to purchase it.

The use of tranexamic acid may lead to adverse side effects.

Common side effects associated with tranexamic acid may include:

• Headache
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• Sinus and nasal symptoms
  
• Back pain
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Muscle pain
  
• Joint pain
  
• Fatigue
  
  

More severe side effects are rare but may include:

• Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing)
  
• Changes in vision
  
• Blood clots or clotting disorders (although this is very rare)
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Chest pain
  
• Swelling
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
• Leg pain
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about them, consult your healthcare provider.

Before starting tranexamic acid, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with tranexamic acid.

Specifically, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of blood clotting disorders, bleeding disorders, or kidney problems or if you are taking:

• Oral contraceptives
  
• Estrogen replacement therapy
  
• Tissue plasminogen activators (e.g., alteplase)
  
• Other medications that may affect blood clotting
  
  

Tranexamic acid should not be used in individuals with a history of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using tranexamic acid to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

The recommended dosing of tranexamic acid for managing heavy menstrual bleeding is typically 1300 mg (two 650 mg tablets) taken by mouth every morning, afternoon, and evening (three times a day) for 5 days during menstruation. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage based on your specific medical condition.

Do not discontinue or increase your tranexamic acid dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of tranexamic acid.

Tranexamic acid is currently only available via prescription. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not tranexamic acid might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Providers on Sesame can assist you with obtaining a prescription for tranexamic acid, which you can pick up at a pharmacy near you, often on the same day. Don't wait to get your prescription filled—talk to a provider on Sesame today and streamline the process for convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Please remember that the decision to prescribe tranexamic acid is at the discretion of your healthcare provider.