Women Must Be Aware of Lysteda Side Effects

Portland, ORWomen who suffer from heavy monthly bleeding may be happy to learn that the Lysteda drug can help with their bleeding, if they are willing to withstand the reported Lysteda side effects. Those side effects apparently include an increased risk of Lysteda blood clots and problems with vision, meaning women who take the medication should be aware of the signs to watch out for and seek medical help if necessary.

Lysteda was approved in 2009 to treat heavy period bleeding (known as menorrhagia). It is a non-hormonal medication and is only meant to be taken while the woman is menstruating. It is not a birth control and does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. The drug, known generically as tranexamic acid, works by stabilizing a protein that encourages blood clotting.

According to the label of Lysteda, some women may be at an increased risk of serious blood clots, especially if Lysteda is taken with hormonal contraceptives—the risks further increase if the woman is taking higher than her normal birth control dose—or if the woman is overweight or smokes. Women who take Lysteda are urged to watch for signs of a blood clot and report to their doctor if they suspect a blood clot.

Furthermore, women who have ever had a blood clot or are at risk of developing a blood clot should inform their doctor before they begin taking Lysteda.

The warning label also urges women to watch for changes in their vision, including eye problems. This is because Lysteda has been linked to retinal vein and retinal artery occlusion (a blockage in the veins or arteries that carry blood to and from the retina), which can result in blindness. Women who take Lysteda are encouraged to speak with their doctor right away if they develop any eye problems or changes in their vision.

Finally, the Lysteda label warns about the risk of severe allergic reaction, including "dyspnea, tightening of the throat and facial flushing." A report during testing of the drug involved a patient who required emergency treatment for an allergic reaction. A case of anaphylactic shock was also reportedly linked to Lysteda.

Women who experience heavy monthly bleeding may consider using Lysteda to control their bleeding, but should be aware of the risk of side effects when making their decision.