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Vet Guide to Aminocaproic Acid (Amicar®) in 2025 🐾
Hi, I’m Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc of Ask A Vet. This comprehensive 2025 guide explores aminocaproic acid (ε-aminocaproic acid, brand name Amicar®) and how vets use it safely in dogs to reduce excessive bleeding—especially in vulnerable sighthounds. We cover mechanism of action, dosing protocols, side effects, monitoring, and real-world examples. Let’s dive in! 🩸
📘 What Is Aminocaproic Acid?
A synthetic lysine analog and antifibrinolytic agent, aminocaproic acid blocks the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin—helping stabilize clots and reduce bleeding :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. It's FDA-approved for human use (Amicar®) and widely used off-label in veterinary medicine :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
✅ When Vets Prescribe It
- Sighthounds pre‑ or post‑surgery: Prevents hemorrhage, especially greyhounds following gonadectomy :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
- Trauma or severe bleeding: Addresses hyperfibrinolysis with trauma or internal hemorrhage :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- Pericardial or liver disease: Helps bleeding-control in dogs with coagulopathies :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Thrombocytopenia support: Adjunct in severe platelet low cases :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
🔬 How It Works
Aminocaproic acid binds to plasminogen’s lysine-binding sites, preventing plasmin from degrading fibrin clots, thus prolonging clot stability :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
📐 Dosing Guidelines
| Scenario | Oral Dose | IV Dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greyhounds (spay/neuter) | 500–1000 mg PO q8 h | 15–40 mg/kg IV post-op | 5 days |
| Bleeding trauma/hemorrhage | 50–100 mg/kg PO q8 h | 50–100 mg/kg IV once | Until hemostasis |
| Liver or pericardial bleeding | 500–1000 mg PO q8 h | 50 mg/kg IV post-op | 5 days |
Oral and IV forms are effective; tablets, syrups, depending on patient needs :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
- GI upset (vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia) in ~1 % of dogs :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Rare elevation of potassium, especially in kidney disease :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Potential but not documented risk of thromboembolism or seizures :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Contraindicated in active DIC or vessel thrombosis; cautious use with kidney, liver, heart disease, pregnancy :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
🔬 Monitoring Your Pet
- Observe bleeding signs and clot stability over the first 24–48 hours
- Check electrolytes (K⁺), kidney/liver panels if used >48 h
- Repeat CBC if bleeding continues or lab abnormalities noted
📊 Evidence & Safety Data
- Greyhounds receiving EACA had significantly less postoperative bleeding than placebo (30 % vs. 10 %) :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- A retrospective study of 122 dogs showed only 3 minor adverse events and no transfusion differences :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- Effective doses in vitro ~50 mg/kg—clinical dosing aligns with this finding :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
🕒 Onset & Duration
Effects begin quickly when used IV, while oral dosing is effective within hours. Clot-stabilizing benefit lasts ~8 hours–1 day, depending on dose and route.
❓FAQs
Can it be given at home?
Yes—oral dosing is safe when prescribed, typically for 5 days post-op or until clotting stabilizes.
Is it used in cats?
No—no current data supporting safe or effective use in cats; veterinary use remains off-label and rare.
What if I miss a dose?
Give it once remembered unless close to next scheduled dose. Do not double up.
Can EACA replace blood transfusions?
No—it supports clot stability but does not raise red blood cell count. Transfusions may still be needed based on anemic status.
🏡 Real‑World Case
A retired racing greyhound underwent spay and received 500 mg EACA orally q8h for 5 days. Compared to placebo group, this dog had minimal bruising and no bleeding complications—consistent with published study outcomes :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Aminocaproic acid is a safe and effective off-label antifibrinolytic for managing bleeding in dogs.
- Dosing runs 50–100 mg/kg PO or 15–40 mg/kg IV depending on scenario.
- Well-tolerated with minimal side effects; monitor GI signs and electrolytes.
- Best as an adjunct when clot stability is a concern alongside conventional care.
- Not suitable for cats or dogs with thrombosis/DIC.
Need tailored advice or dosing guidance for aminocaproic acid (Amicar®)? Ask A Vet is here 24/7 with evidence-based protocols. Download the Ask A Vet app for expert veterinary support anytime. Your pet’s safety is our top priority! 🐶❤️
