What it is used for
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Reducing bleeding in other situations such as after some surgery or dental work (when prescribed)
How it works
It helps blood clots stay stable rather than breaking down too quickly, which reduces heavy bleeding. For periods, it is taken only during the days of heavy flow.
How it is taken
Taken as a tablet, usually only during the heaviest days of a period, and also available as an injection in hospital settings. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and do not exceed the advised number of days.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Muscle aches
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of a blood clot (painful swollen leg, sudden breathlessness, chest pain)
- Sudden vision changes
- Severe allergic reaction
- Signs of a stroke
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Combined hormonal contraceptives may add to clot risk
- Some clotting medicines and treatments
- Tell your clinician about all medicines
Who should take care
- Not suitable if you have had blood clots or have certain clotting or kidney conditions, so give a full history
- Seek urgent help for any clot or stroke symptoms
- Used only during bleeding for periods, not continuously
- Tell your clinician if you have kidney problems, as the dose may need adjusting