Should soldiers take oral tranexamic acid before going into battle?

J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2024 Aug 1;97(2S Suppl 1):S24-S26. doi: 10.1097/TA.0000000000004343. Epub 2024 Apr 10.

Abstract

Tranexamic acid is an inexpensive antifibrinolytic treatment that reduces morbidity and mortality in civilian and military trauma patients. It must be administered within 3 hours of the injury, and its efficacy is greater the earlier it is given. It is already used preventively in the civilian environment in a number of indications to reduce bleeding and bleeding-related mortality. We wondered about the potential benefits of preventive oral administration of tranexamic acid prior to an assault for military personnel with a potential risk of injury.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Antifibrinolytic Agents* / administration & dosage
  • Hemorrhage* / chemically induced
  • Hemorrhage* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Military Personnel*
  • Tranexamic Acid* / administration & dosage
  • Tranexamic Acid* / therapeutic use
  • Wounds and Injuries / complications

Substances

  • Tranexamic Acid
  • Antifibrinolytic Agents