Effects of tranexamic acid on neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species generation in vitro

The effects of tranexamic acid on neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were examined. The species investigated were superoxide radical anion (O₂^-), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and hydroxyl radical (OH·). Tranexamic acid reduced the levels of O₂^- and OH· generated by neutrophils. On the other hand, the agent did not markedly affect neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis and the ROS levels generated in a cell-free, xanthine-xanthine oxidase system. The present study is likely to suggest that tranexamic acid is not an ROS scavenger but exerts an anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting neutrophil-derived ROS generation in tissues and organs, especially at the sites of inflammation.