Who can and cannot take tranexamic acid

Most adults and children of all ages can take tranexamic acid if it's prescribed by a doctor.

Adults aged 18 years old and over can also take tranexamic acid bought from a pharmacy without a prescription for treating heavy periods.

Tranexamic acid is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor before taking this medicine if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to tranexamic acid or any other medicine
• have ever had a blood clot in a vein (deep vein thrombosis) or in your lungs (pulmonary embolism)
• have had a coagulopathy – a rare condition where lots of small blood clots form in your blood followed by abnormal bleeding
• have epilepsy
• have kidney problems
• are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• have irregular periods – this is so your doctor can check what is causing the irregular bleeding and recommend the best treatment for you