Innovative Autoinjector Promises Rapid Treatment for Severe Bleeding Emergencies

A recent breakthrough in trauma medicine introduces a novel autoinjector that delivers tranexamic acid (TXA)—a medication vital for controlling severe bleeding—in under five minutes. This device mirrors the efficacy of traditional IV methods but offers a faster, more accessible solution that does not require specialized medical training. Its significant potential lies in emergency situations, from battlefield injuries to roadside accidents, where swift intervention is crucial.

Developed by researchers led by Professors Arik Eisenkraft and David Gertz from the Institute for Research in Military Medicine at Hebrew University of Jerusalem, in collaboration with the IDF Medical Corps, the autoinjector was explored in a study recently published in the journal Injury. The investigation demonstrated that TXA administered through this autoinjector achieved effective blood clot stabilization comparable to conventional IV methods, but with the advantage of rapid deployment.

Severe hemorrhage remains the leading cause of preventable death in trauma cases worldwide, including combat zones and civilian accidents. While TXA is widely used to reduce blood loss in hospitals and emergency services, its IV administration often faces delays in chaotic or high-stress environments. Given that each 15-minute delay can diminish TXA's effectiveness by 10%, a faster solution becomes imperative.

The new autoinjector technology addresses this challenge by allowing nonmedical responders—such as paramedics, first responders, and military personnel—to quickly administer the drug, significantly decreasing response times. The device's simplicity and portability facilitate its widespread use, ensuring timely treatment in critical moments immediately following injury.

The study's findings confirmed that the pharmacokinetics of TXA delivered via the autoinjector were on par with IV delivery, maintaining stable hemodynamic parameters and ensuring effective clot formation. According to Dr. Eisenkraft, "In heavy bleeding scenarios, every minute counts. This autoinjector allows almost instant administration, which can be life-saving." Dr. Gertz emphasized its potential impact beyond military applications, including natural disasters and roadside accidents.

Overall, this innovation signifies a substantial advancement in emergency medical response, aimed at reducing preventable deaths due to hemorrhage and improving trauma care outcomes in diverse settings.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-autoinjector-severe-emergencies.html