Cetyl Tranexamate Mesylate
Also known as: Cetyl tranexamate mesylate, CTM, Skin-brightening agent (related), Cetyl Tranexamate Mesylate
Overview
Cetyl tranexamate mesylate is a synthetic derivative of tranexamic acid, designed to enhance skin penetration and stability. It is primarily used in cosmetic formulations for skin brightening, reduction of hyperpigmentation, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. As a lipophilic ester of tranexamic acid, it is intended to improve bioavailability and skin retention compared to tranexamic acid itself. However, research specifically on cetyl tranexamate mesylate is limited. Most robust evidence exists for tranexamic acid (TXA) in medical contexts, such as bleeding control. Cetyl tranexamate mesylate is not found in nature and is typically applied topically. The quality of available evidence is low for cetyl tranexamate mesylate, while moderate to high for tranexamic acid.
Benefits
Due to limited research, specific benefits of cetyl tranexamate mesylate are not well-established. Tranexamic acid, the parent compound, has demonstrated benefits including reducing blood loss in surgery (with mean reductions of 100–300 mL in orthopedic surgery) and anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening effects in some dermatological studies. However, these effects are not robustly quantified for cetyl tranexamate mesylate. Tranexamic acid benefits are well-documented in surgical and postpartum hemorrhage populations, with moderate effect sizes for bleeding reduction (RR for transfusion: 0.6–0.8). The time course of benefits for tranexamic acid is acute (hours to days), but this is unknown for cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
How it works
Cetyl tranexamate mesylate is believed to work by inhibiting plasminogen activation, which reduces fibrinolysis and inflammation. As a derivative of tranexamic acid, it may also inhibit melanocyte activity, reducing melanin production. The primary biological pathways affected are coagulation and inflammatory pathways, with topical applications targeting skin melanocytes. The known molecular targets include plasminogen, plasmin, and potentially melanocyte receptors. Cetyl tranexamate mesylate is designed for enhanced skin penetration and retention compared to tranexamic acid, but oral or systemic absorption data are lacking.
Side effects
The safety profile of cetyl tranexamate mesylate is not well-established due to limited research. The safety is generally inferred from tranexamic acid, which is considered safe when used appropriately. Common side effects of tranexamic acid include gastrointestinal upset (oral) and mild skin irritation (topical). Uncommon side effects include headache and dizziness. Rare side effects include thromboembolic events, especially in high-risk populations. Tranexamic acid may interact with anticoagulants and is contraindicated in individuals with a history of thromboembolic disease. Caution is advised in individuals with renal impairment. Specific side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications for cetyl tranexamate mesylate are not well-defined.
Dosage
Optimal dosage guidelines for cetyl tranexamate mesylate are not established due to limited research. For tranexamic acid, topical applications typically use a 5% w/w concentration, while oral dosages range from 1–2 g/day. Timing considerations for tranexamic acid often involve pre- and perioperative use. Topical application is the most common form for cetyl tranexamate mesylate. While enhanced skin penetration is claimed for cetyl tranexamate mesylate, this has not been quantified. There are no identified required cofactors. Due to the lack of research, minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose are not established for cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
FAQs
Is cetyl tranexamate mesylate safe?
The safety of cetyl tranexamate mesylate is inferred from tranexamic acid, but not confirmed. Limited research exists, so caution is advised. Monitor for any adverse reactions during use.
How often should I apply cetyl tranexamate mesylate?
Optimal frequency and duration of topical application are unknown due to limited research. Follow product instructions or consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
What results can I expect from using cetyl tranexamate mesylate?
Skin brightening and reduced hyperpigmentation are claimed, but not substantiated by high-quality evidence. Individual results may vary, and realistic expectations are important.
Is cetyl tranexamate mesylate the same as tranexamic acid?
No, cetyl tranexamate mesylate is a derivative of tranexamic acid. It is designed for enhanced skin penetration, but its efficacy and safety are not equivalent or as well-studied.
Can I take cetyl tranexamate mesylate orally?
Topical application is the typical route of administration. There is limited information available regarding the safety and efficacy of oral administration of cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37778051/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis found that topical tranexamic acid reduces perioperative blood loss in various surgeries, with a mean reduction of 100–300 mL (p < 0.05). The study highlights the efficacy of tranexamic acid in surgical settings but does not specifically address cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39461793/ – This systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis demonstrated that tranexamic acid reduces life-threatening bleeding in postpartum hemorrhage. The study provides strong evidence for the use of tranexamic acid in managing postpartum bleeding but does not provide information on cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0186174 – This systematic review and meta-analysis compared combined (IV + topical) tranexamic acid administration in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The study found that combined tranexamic acid reduces blood loss and transfusion need compared to IV alone (RR for transfusion: 0.6–0.8), but it is not specific to cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2563-6499/5/6/60 – This is a review article discussing the applications of tranexamic acid. It covers various uses of tranexamic acid, including its role in dermatology and surgery, but does not focus specifically on cetyl tranexamate mesylate.
- https://exaly.com/paper-pdf/16343317/citation-report.pdf – This citation report provides an overview of the research landscape related to tranexamic acid. It highlights the breadth of studies citing key publications on tranexamic acid, indicating its widespread use and research interest, but does not offer specific insights into cetyl tranexamate mesylate.