Overview
DESCRIPTION Aminocaproic Acid is 6-aminohexanoic acid, which acts as an inhibitor of fibrinolysis. The structural formula is: NH 2 CH 2 (CH 2 ) 3 CH 2 COOH The molecular formula is: C 6 H 13 NO 2 Molecular Weight: 131.17 Aminocaproic Acid is soluble in water, acid and alkaline solutions; it is sparingly soluble in methanol and practically insoluble in chloroform.
Mechanism of Action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY The fibrinolysis-inhibitory effects of aminocaproic acid appear to be exerted principally via inhibition of plasminogen activators and to a lesser degree through antiplasmin activity. In adults, oral absorption appears to be a zero-order process with an absorption rate of 5.2 g/hr. The mean lag time in absorption is 10 minutes. After a single oral dose of 5 g, absorption was complete (F=1). Mean ± SD peak plasma concentrations (164 ± 28 mcg/mL) were reached within 1.2 ± 0.45 hours. After oral administration, the apparent volume of distribution was estimated to be 23.1 ± 6.6 L (mean ± SD). Correspondingly, the volume of distribution after intravenous administration has been reported to be 30.0 ± 8.2 L.
Indications
- INDICATIONS AND USAGE Aminocaproic Acid Injection is useful in enhancing hemostasis when fibrinolysis contributes to bleeding. In life-threatening situations, fresh whole blood transfusions, fibrinogen infusions, and other emergency measures may be required. Fibrinolytic bleeding may frequently be associated with surgical complications following heart surgery (with or without cardiac bypass procedures), and portacaval shunt; hematological disorders such as aplastic anemia; acute and life-threatening abruptio placentae; hepatic cirrhosis; and neoplastic disease such as carcinoma of the...
Common Doses
- 20 mL
- 5 g
- 250 mL
- 4 mL
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Aminocaproic Acid Injection, USP is administered by infusion, utilizing the usual compatible intravenous vehicles (e.g., Sterile Water for Injection, Sodium Chloride Injection 0.9%, Dextrose Injection 5% or Ringer’s Injection). Although Sterile Water for Injection is compatible for intravenous injection, the resultant solution is hypo-osmolar. RAPID INJECTION OF AMINOCAPROIC ACID INJECTION, USP UNDILUTED INTO A VEIN IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
Contraindications
- CONTRAINDICATIONS Aminocaproic acid should not be used when there is evidence of an active intravascular clotting process. When there is uncertainty as to whether the cause of bleeding is primary fibrinolysis or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), this distinction must be made before administering aminocaproic acid. The following tests can be applied to differentiate the two conditions: Platelet count is usually decreased in DIC but normal in primary fibrinolysis.
Side Effects
- ADVERSE REACTIONS Aminocaproic acid is generally well tolerated. The following adverse experiences have been reported: General : Edema, headache, malaise. Hypersensitivity Reactions : Allergic and anaphylactoid reactions, anaphylaxis. Local Reactions : Injection site reactions, pain and necrosis. Cardiovascular : Bradycardia, hypotension, peripheral ischemia, thrombosis. Gastrointestina l: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting. Hematologic : Agranulocytosis, coagulation disorder, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia.
Interactions
- No major interactions listed on the FDA label. Always consult a healthcare professional.