Tranexamic Acid for Adults with Melasma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE: Melasma is a highly prevalent, chronic, and pigmentary disorder. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid (TA) for the treatment of adults with melasma. METHODS: We independently searched 3 databases from beginning to 26 April, 2018. The study included 21 eligible trials. Two writers extracted data at the same time independently. Study outcomes were calculated by standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager Version 5.3 and STATA Version 15.1. RESULTS: The combined results showed that the use of TA was associated with reduced Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) and Melanin Index (MI). No significant difference in Erythema Index (EI) was observed with TA treatment. Side effects were minor, with a few cases reporting mild gastrointestinal reaction, oligomenorrhoea, hypopigmentation, urticarial rash, and skin irritation xerosis. CONCLUSION: The meta-analysis suggested that TA treatment appeared to be a promising therapeutic approach for melasma.