FOLIC ACID
Background and Date of Approval
Folic acid is an antiaemic medicine belonging to the class of haemopoietic agents. It received FDA approval in 1996 for the treatment of anaemia.
Uses
It is used to treat folic acid deficiency(low levels of red blood cells in the body). It is also treated for anaemia in patients on kidney dialysis (Dialysis works by using a machine to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood). This tablet can also be given during the anaemia in pregnancy.
How is it administered?
Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of Folic acid based on the disease condition and other factors. Always take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Take the tablet at the same time everyday, with or without food. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet. Swallow the whole tablet with water. If you forgot to take the tablet, simply take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur with this medicine are loss of appetite, feeling sick, bloating of the stomach, and flatulence. Other serious side effects also include hypersensitivity reactions like itchy skin, rash, swelling of the face and lips, difficulty breathing and cold sweaty skin. Inform your healthcare provider if these side effects concern you or persist for longer than usual.
Warnings
Folic Acid is not recommended in patients who have hypersensitivity reactions. This medicine may cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. This medicine should be avoided in patients who suffer from pernicious anaemia (a disorder preventing the absorption of vitamin B12) or could be suffering from a lack of vitamin B12. Also, those who received a coronary stent (a tube that is inserted in the artery that leads to the heart, in order to stop blockages) are advised not to take this tablet. If you are undergoing haemodialysis due to kidney failure, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
Precautions
If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, consult your doctor immediately before taking this medicine. This drug contains lactose as an inactive ingredient in which the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It can cause symptoms such as bloating, and abdominal pain. You are advised to avoid dairy products. If you are breastfeeding please consult with your doctor before taking this medicine. Avoid using the tablet if you have cancer (unless you have anaemia due to a deficiency of folic acid). Care needs to be taken in patients with certain tumours.
Word of Advice
Adhere to scheduled dosing times for Folic Acid. If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your doctor to reschedule. Store Folic Acid tablets at room temperature (25°C). Keep out of reach of children. Adequate folic acid intake supports the prevention of birth defects, healthy red blood cell production, and overall health.
References
Folic Acid 400 microgram . MHRA [Accessed on April 12 2023] https://mhraproductsprod.blob.core.windows.net/docs-20200204/eefc374ad5e2c00373d86b8d21b19a612986986d HPRA.ie [Accessed on April 12 2023] https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/b7d79cb3-6f64-46bd-81da-574bfaa8cba0.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the facts about folic acid?
Folic acid is found naturally in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, beans, citrus fruits, and fortified grains and cereals.
What happens when you take folic acid everyday?
Folic acid supplements are prescribed during pregnancy and can reduce the risk of neural tube defects in newborns. Neural tube defects are serious birth defects that affect the brain and spinal cord of the baby.
Who cannot take folic acid?
Folic acid can interact with certain medications, including methotrexate, phenytoin, and sulfasalazine. Therefore, those who take these medications should talk with your doctor before taking this tablet.
What antibiotic affects folic acid?
Some antibiotics can affect folic acid metabolism by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that require folic acid for DNA synthesis. These antibiotics are called folate synthesis inhibitors and include drugs such as sulfonamides, trimethoprim, and pyrimethamine.
What causes folic acid deficiency?
Folic acid is found in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits, beans, and fortified grains. Individuals who do not consume enough of these foods may be at risk of folic acid deficiency.