Could a common drug stop arthritis after a torn ACL?

NCT ID NCT03552705

Recruiting now Prevention Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether tranexamic acid (TXA), a drug that reduces bleeding, can lower inflammation and protect joint health after an ACL tear. Fifty people aged 18-30 with a recent ACL injury will receive either TXA or a placebo around the time of surgery. The goal is to see if TXA can prevent or delay post-traumatic osteoarthritis, which often develops years after such injuries.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: tranexamic acid (TXA)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple way to prevent or delay arthritis after ACL injuries.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial (50 people) testing a short-term effect. The drug may not meaningfully reduce arthritis risk, and results may not apply to everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

osteoarthritis prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University
RECRUITING

Stanford, California, 94305, United States

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