Aminocaproic acid is an important antifibrinolytic drug used to control bleeding by preventing clot breakdown. It is commonly tested in pharmacology, surgery, obstetrics, and hematology, and is clinically relevant in post-operative and bleeding disorders.
What Is Aminocaproic Acid?
Aminocaproic acid is a synthetic lysine analogue that inhibits fibrinolysis (the process of clot breakdown).
Drug Profile (Quick Facts)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Generic name | Aminocaproic acid |
| Brand name | Amicar |
| Drug class | Antifibrinolytic |
| Route | Oral, IV |
| Main action | Prevents clot breakdown |
Why Antifibrinolytics Are Needed
After a clot forms, the body activates plasmin, which breaks fibrin into fragments.
In some conditions, this process becomes excessive, leading to uncontrolled bleeding.
Antifibrinolytics help by stabilizing clots.
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Mechanism of Action (High-Yield)
Aminocaproic acid works by blocking plasminogen activation.
Step-by-Step Mechanism
1. Structurally similar to lysineExam Line to Remember
Aminocaproic acid inhibits fibrinolysis by blocking plasminogen activation
How It Differs from Anticoagulants
| Feature | Aminocaproic Acid | Anticoagulants |
|---|---|---|
| Effect on clot formation | No effect | Prevents clot formation |
| Effect on clot breakdown | Inhibits breakdown | No effect |
| Clinical role | Stops bleeding | Prevents thrombosis |
Aminocaproic acid does not form clots, it protects existing clots.
Clinical Uses of Aminocaproic Acid
1. Excessive Fibrinolysis
- After major surgery
- Post-cardiac surgery
- Prostate surgery
2. Bleeding Disorders
- Hemophilia (adjunct)
- Von Willebrand disease (procedural bleeding)
3. Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Menorrhagia (selected cases)
- Postpartum bleeding (adjunct)
4. Dental & ENT Procedures
- Tooth extraction in bleeding-prone patients
- Tonsillectomy-related bleeding
Dosing & Administration (Overview)
Routes
- Oral tablets/syrup
- Intravenous infusion
General Principle
- Given during or immediately after bleeding episodes
- Dose depends on severity and clinical context
(Exact dosing varies—always refer to institutional protocols)
Pharmacokinetics (Simplified)
- Well absorbed orally
- Minimal protein binding
- Excreted mainly via kidneys
- Short half-life → repeated dosing required
Adverse Effects (Important for Exams)
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
Serious Adverse Effects
- Thrombosis (rare but important)
- Hypotension (rapid IV infusion)
- Muscle weakness
- Rhabdomyolysis (rare)
Contraindications
Avoid aminocaproic acid in:
- Active intravascular clotting
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (unless directed)
- Severe renal impairment
- History of thromboembolic disease (relative)
Drug Interactions
- Avoid combination with pro-coagulant drugs without monitoring
- Use cautiously with oral contraceptives (thrombotic risk)
Aminocaproic Acid vs Tranexamic Acid
| Feature | Aminocaproic Acid | Tranexamic Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | Lower | Higher |
| Duration | Shorter | Longer |
| Clinical preference | Less common | More common |
| Exam relevance | Moderate | High |
Tranexamic acid is a newer and more potent antifibrinolytic.
Practical Clinical Points
- Monitor renal function during prolonged therapy
- Ensure bleeding is due to fibrinolysis, not clotting disorder
- Stop drug if signs of thrombosis appear
- Do not use blindly in DIC
Exam-Oriented Memory Trick
Drug Class
“Amino-CAPROIC stops clot EROSION”
Mechanism
“Blocks plasmin → protects fibrin”
FAQs
1. What is aminocaproic acid used for?
It is used to control bleeding by preventing fibrin clot breakdown.
2. Is aminocaproic acid an anticoagulant?
No, it is an antifibrinolytic—it stabilizes existing clots.
3. How does aminocaproic acid stop bleeding?
By inhibiting plasmin formation and preventing fibrin degradation.
4. Can aminocaproic acid cause thrombosis?
Yes, rarely, especially if used improperly or in high-risk patients.
5. Is it used in surgery?
Yes, especially in cardiac, urologic, and major surgeries.
6. What is the difference between aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid?
Tranexamic acid is more potent and commonly used today.
7. Can it be given orally?
Yes, aminocaproic acid can be given orally or intravenously.
8. Is it safe in pregnancy?
Used cautiously; benefit must outweigh risk.
9. Does it dissolve clots?
No, it prevents clot breakdown.
10. What is the brand name of aminocaproic acid?
Amicar.
