Women’s Health: New Medication Offers Relief for Heavy Periods

Horizons in Hemophilia, May 2012

By Penny Kumpf, RN, VWD Community Outreach Nurse

Women who have bleeding disorders may think “I am so tired of dealing with a heavy monthly cycle; if only I could have a lighter period." Or, “What is this Lysteda® that I have heard about?  Can it help me?  Do I need a prescription?” Do these thoughts cross your mind when you hear or see something advertised that might help your medical situation?  As always, we will tell you to check everything out with your health care provider because every person is unique and what might be a good drug of choice for some may not be right for you.

So let’s talk about Lysteda® (Tranexamic acid), that some women are taking to help with their monthly menstrual cycles. Overall, in clinical studies, Lysteda® reduced blood loss during a menstrual cycle by approximately 40%.  Some patients find it helpful and some do not. The women who find relief with Lysteda® seem to really love it.  However, it does not work for everyone and some women still need to have other medications to help them cope with a heavy period. Sorry, there is no quick fix for all.

Lysteda® is hormone free, so it does not rely on hormones to regulate a woman’s monthly cycle. It works similarly to aminocaproic acid (Amicar®) by preventing the body’s normal method of breaking down blood clots. It is the only non-hormonal medicine that is FDA approved for heavy monthly bleeding.  Women begin taking the medicine on the first day of their periods and take two tablets three times per day for up to five days.  

This medicine is not for everyone.  Lysteda® is not appropriate for women who have ever had a blood clot, are pregnant, smoke, or are allergic to tranexamic acid. This medication has not been studied in women under 18 years of age, but since its approval by the FDA it has been used in teenagers with heavy menstrual bleeding. When directed by your doctor, Lysteda® can be used in conjunction with other medications to reduce your menstrual blood flow such as hormonal agents or clotting factor.

Although Lysteda’s® mechanism of action is similar to that of Amicar®, it is better tolerated by most women. Some of the most common side effects of Lysteda® include headaches, muscle or joint pain, sinus problems, anemia, fatigue, back pain, or abdominal pain.  Women should stop taking Lysteda® right away and report to the doctor any of these problems:  eye changes, allergic reactions, or any changes in regular monthly cycles.

I am so glad to report on something that may make your monthly cycle easier and get you out in life enjoying the journey!