What is Tranexamic Acid 500 mg?

Tranexamic acid 500 mg tablets are an anti-fibrinolytic medicine used to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. They can be used for heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding, where a prescription treatment is considered appropriate after an online consultation.

This product page refers to tranexamic acid 500 mg tablets supplied on a private prescription following an online consultation.

How does Tranexamic Acid work?

Tranexamic acid works by helping blood clots stay in place for longer. During heavy periods, the breakdown of blood clots in the womb lining can contribute to heavier bleeding. By slowing this breakdown, tranexamic acid can help reduce how much blood is lost during a period.

What is Tranexamic Acid 500 mg used for on this page?

On this product page, tranexamic acid 500 mg tablets are used specifically for:

- Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding

- Regular menstrual cycles where bleeding is heavier than normal and likely to benefit from short-course treatment during the period

It is not used here for:

- Irregular bleeding without further assessment

- Bleeding outside normal periods without further investigation

- Pelvic pain or period pain on its own without heavy bleeding

Your prescriber will confirm tranexamic acid is appropriate based on your symptoms, menstrual history, medical history and any other medicines you are using.

Who may be suitable for Tranexamic Acid 500 mg?

You may be suitable if:

- You have heavy periods with a regular cycle

- Your symptoms fit a pattern where short-course treatment during the period is appropriate

- You are able to take tablets during the days of heavy bleeding and follow the dosing instructions carefully

Your prescriber will consider:

- How heavy the bleeding is and how long it lasts

- Whether your cycles are regular

- Whether there are warning signs suggesting another cause that needs investigation

- Any history of blood clots, kidney problems or other relevant medical conditions

- Any other medicines or health conditions you have

before deciding if tranexamic acid is suitable for you.

Who should not use Tranexamic Acid 500 mg or needs medical advice first?

Do not use without medical advice if you:

- Are allergic to tranexamic acid or any of the ingredients in the tablets

- Have a history of blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism or certain clotting disorders

- Have severe kidney disease unless suitability has been assessed

- Have blood in the urine from an upper urinary tract cause

- Have irregular bleeding, bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, or other symptoms needing further assessment

- Are pregnant or breastfeeding without checking suitability first

Use with caution and seek prescriber advice if you:

- Have kidney problems

- Are taking the combined hormonal contraceptive pill, because the risk of thrombosis may be increased

- Are taking medicines that affect clotting

- Have symptoms that are not clearly due to uncomplicated heavy periods

- Have heavy bleeding that is new, worsening, or associated with pelvic pain or pressure

How do I take Tranexamic Acid 500 mg?

Your prescriber will confirm the exact directions. 

Practical advice:

- Start treatment only once menstrual bleeding has started

- Swallow the tablets with water

- They can be taken with or without food

- If bleeding is very heavy, the dose may be increased if advised, but the total should not exceed 4 g in 24 hours

- Use it only during the days of heavy bleeding as advised

If your bleeding gets worse, does not improve, or you become more unwell, seek medical advice.

General self-care advice:

- Keep track of how many pads or tampons you are using and whether you are passing clots

- Stay well hydrated

- If bleeding is causing tiredness, dizziness or breathlessness, medical review may be needed to assess for anaemia

- Seek review if heavy periods are new, worsening, or affecting your daily life significantly

- If contraception or longer-term management is needed, other treatment options may be worth discussing

Side effects and when to get help:

Common side effects can include nausea, diarrhoea, stomach upset and headache. These are often mild.

Seek medical advice urgently if you develop leg swelling, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, severe vision problems, severe allergic symptoms, or any signs that could suggest a blood clot or a serious reaction.

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