Tranexamic acid is a medicine that is sometimes used to treat bleeding disorders in people. It works by helping to stop bleeding by preventing blood clots from breaking down. However, when a pregnant woman takes this medicine, it may have some side effects that can be harmful to both the mother and the baby.
One of the biggest concerns with tranexamic acid during pregnancy is that it may increase the risk of blood clots. This is because the medicine can cause the blood to become too thick, which can lead to clotting. If a clot forms in a blood vessel, it can block the flow of blood to important organs like the heart or brain, which can be very dangerous.
In addition to the risk of blood clots, taking tranexamic acid during pregnancy can also increase the risk of other side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These side effects can be especially harmful to the developing baby, as they can cause dehydration and other complications.
Common side effects of tranexamic acid in pregnancy:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Serious side effects of tranexamic acid in pregnancy:
- Blood clots
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or changes in color vision
It is important to note that not all patients will experience side effects, and the severity and frequency of side effects may vary depending on the individual patient’s medical history and dosage of the medication. Pregnant women who experience any side effects while taking tranexamic acid should contact their doctor immediately for further evaluation and treatment.
It’s important to note that while tranexamic acid is sometimes used during pregnancy, it should only be taken under the close supervision of a doctor. If you are pregnant and have been prescribed this medicine, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits before starting treatment.
In summary, tranexamic acid is a medicine that is sometimes used to treat bleeding disorders in people, but it may have potential side effects during pregnancy, including an increased risk of blood clots and other complications. It’s important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits before taking this medicine during pregnancy.
Here are some common questions people ask about tranexamic acid in pregnancy
- What is tranexamic acid and why is it used?Tranexamic acid is a medication that is used to help stop bleeding in people with certain bleeding disorders. It works by preventing blood clots from breaking down, which can help stop bleeding.
- How does tranexamic acid work in the body? Tranexamic acid works by preventing a substance called plasmin from breaking down blood clots. When blood clots are formed, they help to stop bleeding. By preventing the breakdown of blood clots, tranexamic acid can help to stop bleeding in people with certain bleeding disorders.
- What are the potential risks of taking tranexamic acid during pregnancy? Taking tranexamic acid during pregnancy can increase the risk of blood clots, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. Other potential risks include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which can be harmful to the developing baby.
- What are the potential benefits of taking tranexamic acid during pregnancy? In some cases, tranexamic acid may be used during pregnancy to help stop bleeding in women with certain bleeding disorders. This can help to prevent complications and ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
- How is tranexamic acid typically administered during pregnancy? Tranexamic acid can be administered in several ways during pregnancy, including orally or by injection. The dosage and method of administration will depend on the individual patient’s needs and medical history.
- What should pregnant women consider before taking tranexamic acid? Pregnant women should talk to their doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking tranexamic acid during pregnancy. They should also discuss any other medical conditions or medications they are taking that may interact with tranexamic acid.
- What are the potential side effects of tranexamic acid during pregnancy? The potential side effects of tranexamic acid during pregnancy include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it may also increase the risk of blood clots, which can be dangerous.
- How can doctors monitor pregnant women taking tranexamic acid to minimize risk? Doctors can monitor pregnant women taking tranexamic acid by monitoring their blood clotting factors and checking for any signs of blood clots. They may also adjust the dosage or method of administration as needed.
- Are there alternative treatments to tranexamic acid for bleeding disorders during pregnancy?Yes, there are alternative treatments for bleeding disorders during pregnancy, including other medications and medical procedures. The best treatment option will depend on the individual patient’s needs and medical history.
- What should pregnant women do if they experience side effects while taking tranexamic acid?Pregnant women who experience side effects while taking tranexamic acid should contact their doctor immediately. Depending on the severity of the side effects, the doctor may adjust the dosage or method of administration, or switch to an alternative treatment.
Resources:
- MedlinePlus – Tranexamic Acid: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682879.html
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Use of Tranexamic Acid in Obstetrics and Gynecology: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/09/use-of-tranexamic-acid-in-obstetrics-and-gynecology
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. The author and publisher of this article make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or reliability of any information contained herein.
Dr. Delores is expert in child behavior and psychology and has knowledge of various medical domains.
She also has raised her three children and trains many at her clinic. She is lead contributor on our website