Analogs

Vitrum folicum , Sodiofolin , Folacin .

pharmachologic effect

Folic acid takes part in the synthesis of amino acids, nucleic acids, pyrimidines, purines, choline metabolism. In combination with vitamin B12 ( cyanocobalamin ), it stimulates the process of blood formation, partially – erythropoiesis . Essential for the normal development of other blood cells.  

During pregnancy, folic acid protects the body from teratogenic factors.

Indications for use

Macrocytic anemia, in particular megaloblastic anemia in pregnant women; for the treatment of sprue in order to normalize hematopoiesis , eliminate or reduce the clinical manifestations of the disease.

Anemia and leukopenia due to ionizing radiation, chemicals; anemia due to resection of the stomach or part of the intestine; megaloblastic anemia due to intestinal tuberculosis and chronic gastroenteritis, pernicious anemia, pellagra.

As an adjuvant in depression and anxiety syndrome, in the treatment of cervical dysplasia.

Method of administration and dosage

Folic acid is taken orally after meals.

The daily dose and duration of treatment is determined by the doctor individually.

For therapeutic purposes, the drug is used in 1-2 tablets (1-2 mg) 1-3 times a day. The daily dose is up to 5 mg (5 tablets).   

In children, starting from 3 years old , depending on age and disease, the drug is used in smaller doses (1 mg 1-2 times a day). The maximum daily dose is 2 mg (2 tablets).   

Typically, the course of treatment is 20-30 days.

In case of macrocytic anemia, the   drug is used in adults   at 5 mg 2-3 times a day for 10-15 days.  

In pregnant women with a reduced hemoglobin level   in the first trimester of pregnancy, folic acid is used at a dose of 4 mg per day in combination with iron preparations for 3 months. Then the dose is reduced to 4 mg once a week.   

Side effects

Nausea, bitterness in the mouth, bronchospasm , erythema, rash, itching, urticaria, hypotension.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to drug components, untreated cobalamin deficiency, pernicious anemia, malignant neoplasms.

Overdose

Very high doses of folic acid can increase CNS excitability and cause seizures.

Treatment.   Cancellation of the drug, symptomatic therapy.