Ranexa (Tranexamic acid) is used to treat heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle (monthly periods) in women. Tranexamic acid is in a class of medications called antifibrinolytics. It works to improve blood clotting. Ranolazine ER (Generic) is FDA approved and available for purchase.

Tranexamic acid comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food three times a day for up to 5 days during monthly menstruation. You should begin taking this medication each month when your period starts. Do not take tranexamic acid when you do not have a period. Take tranexamic acid at around the same times every day you are to receive a dose. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take tranexamic acid exactly as directed. Do not take tranexamic acid tablets for more than 5 days in a menstrual cycle or take more than 6 tablets in a 24 hour period of time. Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. Tranexamic acid is used to decrease the amount of blood lost during your monthly period but does not stop menstrual bleeding. Call your doctor if your bleeding does not improve or gets worse during your treatment. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.

Before taking tranexamic acid,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to tranexamic acid, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in tranexamic acid tablets. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor if you are taking hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, patches, rings, and injections). Your doctor will probably tell you not to take tranexamic acid if you are taking this medication.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: certain medications used to improve blood clotting including Factor IX complex concentrate (AlphaNine SD, Bebulin VH, Benefix, Mononine, Profilmine SD) and activated prothrombin complex concentrate (Feiba NF); and tretinoin.
• Tell your doctor you are taking tranexamic acid if you will be receiving medications to treat blood clots, including tissue plasminogen activators such as alteplase (Activase) and reteplase (Retavase). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a blood clot, if you have a blood clotting condition, or if you have been told you are at risk of having a blood clot. Your doctor will probably tell you not to take tranexamic acid.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease. Also tell your doctor if the time between the start of your menstrual periods is less than 21 days or more than 35 days.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking tranexamic acid, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking tranexamic acid.

Tranexamic acid may cause side effects including:

• headache
• tiredness
• sinus pain
• back pain
• stomach pain
• bone, joint, or muscle pain

Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away. 

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking tranexamic acid and call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:

• hives; rash; itching; difficulty breathing or swallowing; swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; hoarseness
• changes in vision, including color vision
• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• leg pain, swelling, tenderness, redness, or warmth

Tranexamic acid may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

Q: Why is Ranexa prescribed?

A: Ranexa (ranolazine) is used to treat chronic angina (chest pain)

Q: Does Ranexa work in case of an acute attack of angina?

A: No, Ranexa is not for use during an emergency attack

Q: Does Ranexa have a generic alternative?

A: Ranolazine ER (Generic) is FDA approved and available for purchase at a lower cost than the brand name.

Q: What if I miss a dose of Ranexa?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, but then take your next dose at least 6 hours later. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take more than two tablets at a time to make up for a missed dose.

Q: How should I store this medication?

A: Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).