Inhalations of Tranexamic Acid for hemoptysis: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Tranexamic Acid (TA) is an antifibrinolytic drug which may control bleeding. There are no prospective studies of inhalations of TA for the treatment of hemoptysis. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of inhalations of TA for the treatment of hemoptysis. Methods: We conducted a double-blind, randomized control trial of treatment with nebulised TA (500mg TID) vs. placebo (Normal Saline, NS) in patients admitted with hemoptysis of various etiologies. Patients with massive hemoptysis (expectorated blood >200ml/24Hrs), hemodynamic or respiratory instability were excluded. Results: A total of 47 patients were randomized to inhalations of TA (n=25) or NS (n=22). TA was associated with a significantly reduced volume of expectorated blood starting from the second day of admission (Figure). Hemoptysis resolved in more patients treated with TA than with NS (96% vs. 50%, p Conclusions: Inhalations of TA can be used safely and effectively to control bleeding in patients with non-massive hemoptysis. Figure: Daily volume of expectorated blood * Significant difference, p