aminocaproic acid

What is the most important information I should know about aminocaproic acid?

What is aminocaproic acid?

Aminocaproic acid is a man-made form of a protein that occurs naturally in the body and helps the blood to clot.

Aminocaproic acid is used to treat bleeding episodes in people with certain medical conditions such as aplastic anemia (lack of blood cells and platelets), cirrhosis of the liver, placenta abruptio (early separation of the placenta in pregnancy), urinary bleeding, and certain types of cancer.

Aminocaproic acid is also used to prevent bleeding after heart surgery or placement of a shunt near the liver to control high blood pressure.

Aminocaproic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using aminocaproic acid?

To make sure aminocaproic acid is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• kidney disease; or
• a history of stroke or blood clots.

How should I use aminocaproic acid?

Your doctor will perform blood tests to make sure you do not have conditions that would prevent you from safely using aminocaproic acid.

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Aminocaproic acid is either taken by mouth or injected into a vein through an IV.

You may be shown how to use an IV at home. Do not give yourself this medicine if you do not understand how to use the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used.

Treatment with aminocaproic acid is usually continued hourly for 8 hours or until the bleeding has stopped.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The injectable form of aminocaproic acid must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. If you are using the injections at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine.

Do not use the injectable medicine if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Use a disposable needle and syringe only once. Follow any state or local laws about throwing away used needles and syringes. Use a puncture-proof "sharps" disposal container (ask your pharmacist where to get one and how to throw it away). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

While using aminocaproic acid, you may need frequent blood tests. Your kidney function may also need to be checked. Aminocaproic acid can have long-lasting effects on your body. You may need frequent medical tests for a short time after you stop using this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since aminocaproic acid is used as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are using the medication regularly, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include urinating less than usual, feeling light-headed, or fainting.

What should I avoid while using aminocaproic acid?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of aminocaproic acid?

• unexplained muscle pain or weakness (especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, or dark colored urine);
• sudden weakness or ill feeling, fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, easy bruising, unusual bleeding;
• numbness, tingling, or cold feeling in your arms or legs;
• slow heart rate, trouble breathing, feeling like you might pass out;
• kidney problems --little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath; or
• signs of a blood clot --sudden numbness or weakness, tingling or cold feeling in an arm or leg, trouble breathing, sudden cough or chest pain, or swelling, warmth, or redness in your arms or legs.

Common side effects may include:

• muscle weakness;
• headache;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
• (in men) decreased amount of semen when having an orgasm;
• stuffy nose, watery eyes;
• vision problems, ringing in your ears; or
• itching, rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect aminocaproic acid?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

• factor IX complex; or
• anti-inhibitor coagulant complex (Autoplex, Feiba VH).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with aminocaproic acid, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about aminocaproic acid.