The use of tranexamic acid in reducing bleeding complications

Tranexamic acid inhibits fibrinolysis by competitively blocking the lysine binding sites of plasminogen, inhibiting binding between fibrin and plasminogen, and activation of plasminogen. It also competitively inhibits tissue plasminogen activator and inhibits plasmininduced platelet activation. The synthesis of tranexamic acid was first reported in 1962. It is used to treat or prevent excessive blood loss from trauma, surgery, and in various medical conditions including haemophilia and heavy menstrual bleeding. As a medicine affecting coagulation, it is listed in the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. Tranexamic acid remains a versatile and inexpensive agent with potential benefit in health services from the lowest to highest income countries. This pharmacy review focuses on the evidence base to support the use of tranexamic acid in acquired and inherited bleeding disorders to reduce bleeding complications.