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Aminocaproic acid

Generic name: aminocaproic acid [ a-MEE-noe-ka-PROE-ik-AS-id ]
Brand name: Amicar
Dosage forms: intravenous solution (250 mg/mL), oral liquid (1.25 g/5 mL), oral tablet (1000 mg; 500 mg)
Drug class: Miscellaneous coagulation modifiers

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 1, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

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.

Aminocaproic acid side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Aminocaproic acid may cause serious side effects. Stop using aminocaproic acid and call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of aminocaproic acid may include:

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.

Warnings

Stop using aminocaproic acid and call your doctor at once if you have: unexplained muscle pain, sudden numbness or weakness, tingling or cold feeling in an arm or leg, trouble breathing, a sudden cough or sudden chest pain.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use aminocaproic acid if you are allergic to it.

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

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Unless you are being treated for placenta abruptio, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether aminocaproic acid passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

Aminocaproic acid is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

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 aminocaproic acid 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.

You should start using this medicine at the first sign of a bleeding episode. You may need to first use the injection form and then use an oral form (tablet or liquid). Your first dose may be much higher than the doses you use later on. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

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.

Call your doctor promptly if your symptoms do not improve after using aminocaproic acid.

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.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the medicine to freeze.

Aminocaproic acid dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Fibrinolytic Bleeding:

IV: 4 to 5 g IV infusion during the first hour of treatment, followed by a continuous infusion of 1 g/hr.
Oral: 5 g orally during the first hour of treatment, followed by a continuous rate of 1 g/hr (tablets) or 1.25 g/hr (oral solution).

Duration of therapy: Usually continued for about 8 hours or until bleeding controlled.

Use: To enhance hemostasis when fibrinolysis contributes to bleeding.

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?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

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 other drugs will affect aminocaproic acid?

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

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.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.