Tranexamic Acid

Question 1

What is tranexamic acid (TXA)?

Answer 1

TXA (1g /10mL) is a competitive inhibitor of plasminogen activation through the formation of a reversible complex displacing plasminogen from fibrin.

Hepatic metabolism with renal excretion.

Onset: Minutes
Duration: 7-8 hours
Half-life: 2 hours

Question 2

Indications for TXA?

Answer 2

1. Recent traumatic injuries (3 hours or less) with a COAST score of 3 or greater.
2. Management of uncontrolled primary postpartum haemorrhage (3 hours of less)

Question 3

Contraindications for TXA?

Answer 3

1. Allergy/ADR

Question 4

Precautions for TXA?

Answer 4

Nil

Question 5

Side effects of TXA?

Answer 5

1. Headache
2. Hypotension
3. Nausea & vomiting
4. Seizures

Question 6

What is the dose of TXA for an adult?

Answer 6

1 g IV
Slow push over 10 min
Single dose only

Question 7

What is the dose of TXA for a paediatric?

Answer 7

QAS clinical consult required in all circumstances.

15 mg/kg IV
Slow push over 10 min
Single dose only
Total max dose 1 g