Dostan (tranexamic acid, hemostatic agent)

Dostan is the brand name of the drug tranexamic acid (TXA). TXA is an antifibrinolytic drug that prevents the breakdown of fibrin clots in the blood.

Uses

What is Dostan used for?

• Prophylaxis of hemorrhage
• Hereditary angioedema
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia)
• Excessive bleeding

How should I take Dostan?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid.

For parenteral dosage forms, only a licensed healthcare professional should administer it.

The mouthwash preparation should not be swallowed. Swish, gargle, and spit out the mouthwash.

How do I store Dostan?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Dostan?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

This medication is pregnancy risk category B according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

• A= No risk
• B= No risk in some studies
• C= There may be some risk
• D= Positive evidence of risk
• X= Contraindicated
• N= Unknown

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from Dostan?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Pain
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Hemoptysis
• Fainting
• Edema
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Vision changes

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Dostan?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Blood thinners or anticoagulants
• Drugs that prevent bleeding
• Estrogen-containing drugs

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Dostan?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Dostan?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Blood clots
• Bleeding in the brain
• Color vision impairment

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Oral route:

• Usual Dose: 1-2 capsules (250 mg) 3 times a day or 1 tab (500 mg) 3-4 times a day.
• Menorrhagia (Heavy Menstrual Bleeding): 4 capsules or 2 tablets (1 g) 3 times a day starting on the 1st day of the period for days of heavy flow.

Intravenous or Intramuscular injection:

1-2 amps/day (5-10 ml) (250-500 mg/day) in 1-2 divided doses. During or after surgery, 2-10 amps (10-50 ml) (500-2500 mg) are given by Intravenous drip infusion, if necessary.

What is the dose for a child?

There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Dostan available?

• Solution for injection 50 mg/mL
• Capsule 250 mg
• Tablet 500 mg
• Mouthwash

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.