Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of tranexamic acid

Tranexamic acid 1 g was given intravenously to three healthy volunteers. Plasma concentrations decayed in three monoexponential phases. Most elimination took place during the first eight hours, giving an apparent elimination half-life of approximately two hours. Plasma clearance ranged between 110-116 ml/min. The urinary recovery of tranexamic acid exceeded 95% of the dose. Ten healthy volunteers were given tranexamic acid 2 g orally on an empty stomach, and together with a meal. Food had no influence on the absorption of tranexamic acid, as judged by comparison of the peak plasma concentration, the time required to reach the peak, the AUC from zero to six hours, and the urinary excretion data. The oral bioavailability of tranexamic acid, calculated from 24 h urinary excretion after oral and intravenous administration, was 34% of the dose.