FDA Approves New Drug for VWD

Horizons in Hemophilia, June 2010

By Leigh Carpenter, RPh, Chief Pharmacist

In December 2009, Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced FDA approval for Lysteda, a tablet form of tranexamic acid, used for treating heavy menstrual bleeding. Previously, this drug was only available in the United States as an injectable drug (Cyklokapron). Ferrring Pharmaceuticals recently acquired the global rights to Lysteda and will be marketing it in the U.S. This approval represents an important new non-hormonal treatment option for women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding, a very common symptom of VWD. Lysteda is now available through the HoG Pharmacy and Beacon Pharmacy. Each tablet is 650mg. Please contact your Hemophilia Treatment Center to discuss obtaining a prescription.