Related Experiment Videos
Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid in Melasma: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review
Hyun Jung Kim1, Seok Hoon Moon, Sang Hyun Cho
1Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Tranexamic acid is a novel treatment option for melasma; however, there is no consensus on its use. This systematic review searched major databases for relevant publications to March 2016. Eleven studies with 667 participants were included. Pooled data from tranexamic acid-only observational studies with pre- and post-treatment Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) showed a decrease of 1.60 in MASI (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.20-2.00; p<0.001) after treat-ment with tranexamic acid. The addition of tranexamic acid to routine treatment modalities resulted in a further decrease in MASI of 0.94 (95% CI 0.10-1.79; p = 0.03). Side-effects were minor, with a few cases reporting hypo-menorrhoea, mild abdominal discomfort, and transient skin irritation. These results support the efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid, either alone or as an adjuvant to routine treatment modalities for melasma.
Insights
Tranexamic acid effectively treats melasma, reducing the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score. It is safe as a standalone or adjunctive therapy for melasma, with minor side effects observed.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Melasma presents a therapeutic challenge with no established consensus on optimal treatment.
- Tranexamic acid has emerged as a potential novel agent for melasma management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid for melasma treatment.
- To evaluate tranexamic acid as both a monotherapy and an adjunct to existing treatments.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of major databases was conducted, including publications up to March 2016.
- Eleven studies involving 667 participants were analyzed.
- Pooled data assessed changes in the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scores.
Main Results:
- Tranexamic acid monotherapy significantly decreased MASI scores by 1.60 (p<0.001).
- Adjunctive use of tranexamic acid further reduced MASI scores by 0.94 (p=0.03).
- Reported side effects were minor, including hypomenorrhea, abdominal discomfort, and skin irritation.
Conclusions:
- Tranexamic acid demonstrates significant efficacy in reducing melasma severity.
- The agent is well-tolerated, supporting its use as a safe treatment option.
- Tranexamic acid can be utilized effectively alone or combined with other melasma therapies.