Tranexamic Acid

Abstract

A drug is defined in physiology as being a substance that exerts an effect on the body once it has been ingested or otherwise introduced. Drugs are administered in many forms, which include (but are not limited to) a variety of oral and topical preparations. The purpose of this column was to take a closer look at drugs that are used in the field of dermatology. More specifically, this column hopes to bring an understanding to the reader regarding mechanism of action, administration, dosage, adverse effects, contraindications, and viable alternatives to each particular drug being discussed. In this article, tranexamic acid and its use as a dermatologic treatment for melasma, as well as other treatment modalities, will be discussed.