Folicare

Indications

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is used to:

• Prevent neural tube defects (serious birth defects of the brain and spine) when taken before and in early pregnancy.
• Treat and prevent anaemia caused by folate deficiency (megaloblastic anaemia).
• Meet higher needs in pregnancy, breastfeeding, some blood disorders and long-term dialysis.
• Reduce some side effects of Methotrexate, as prescribed.

How It Works

Folic acid is needed to make DNA and new cells, especially red blood cells. Without enough of it, the bone marrow makes large, poorly working red cells, causing anaemia. It also helps the baby's brain and spine develop normally in early pregnancy.

Dosage and Administration

• Planning pregnancy and early pregnancy: usually 400 mcg (0.4 mg) a day, starting before conception and continuing until at least the 12th week of pregnancy.
• Women at higher risk (for example, a previous baby with a neural tube defect, diabetes, epilepsy medicines or obesity): a higher dose such as 5 mg a day, as prescribed.
• Folate deficiency anaemia in adults: commonly 5 mg a day, usually for about 4 months, as prescribed.
• With Methotrexate, for children, and in other conditions: as prescribed.

Take by mouth with or without food.

Interactions

Folic acid can lower blood levels of Phenytoin, Phenobarbital and Primidone, so seizure control may need checking. Some medicines lower folate or block its action, including Methotrexate, Trimethoprim, Pyrimethamine, Sulfasalazine and some epilepsy medicines. Tell the doctor about all medicines you take.

Contraindications

• Allergy to folic acid or any ingredient of the product.
• Anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency (such as pernicious anaemia) that has not been treated, unless B12 is given at the same time.

Side Effects

Side effects are uncommon. Some people get nausea, loss of appetite, bloating or a bitter taste. Get urgent medical help if you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Recommended and important in pregnancy. Safe during breastfeeding at normal doses.

Precautions and Warnings

Before treating megaloblastic anaemia, the doctor should check vitamin B12 levels. Folic acid alone can improve the blood count while B12 deficiency keeps damaging the nerves. If you take epilepsy medicines, tell your doctor before starting folic acid.

Overdose

Folic acid has very low toxicity and a large dose is unlikely to cause serious harm. If a large amount has been taken and you feel unwell, seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Vitamin B (water-soluble vitamin); used to treat anaemia.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.