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Antifibrinolytics

Antifibrinolytics

Antifibrinolytics are a category of medications that help blood clot by preventing the clot from breaking down before the body has had time to heal. More technically, they prevent fibrinolysis, meaning they ensure fibrin doesn’t breakdown. Fibrin is one of the main proteins needed to make blood clot. 

So really the name “antifibrinolytics” says it all. “Anti” is against; “fibrin” is the protein needed to make blood clots; and “lytics” means related to “lysis” which is breaking down. Put it all together and these medications work against fibrin being broken down to make sure the blood clots. 

Antifibrinolytics can be used to prevent or treat bleeds for some bleeding disorders. It is important to work with your health care provider to learn about the medications and their side effects, and determine which treatment is best for you.

Types of Antifibrinolytics

  • Aminocaproic acid (brand name Amicar®) is often recommended before dental procedures and to treat nose and mouth bleeds. It can be used for treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding (heavy and long-lasting periods). It is taken by mouth, as a pill or liquid. The Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MASAC) recommends that a dose of clotting factor be taken first to form a clot, then aminocaproic acid, to preserve the clot and keep it from being broken down too quickly. Aminocaproic acid can be used to manage bleeding in people with hemophilia A, B, VWD, and some ultra-rare bleeding disorders.
  • Tranexamic acid (brand names Lysteda® and Cyklokapron®) is often recommended before dental procedures and to treat nose and mouth bleeds but is also approved for treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding (heavy and long-lasting periods). It is taken by mouth, as a pill, or liquid. It works by blocking the breakdown of fibrin to prevent bleeding. The Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MASAC) recommendation notes which other medications should not be used when taking tranexamic acid. Tranexamic acid can be used to manage bleeding in people with hemophilia A, B, VWD, and some ultra-rare bleeding disorders.

Learn more about FDA-approved products for the treatment of bleeding disorders.