COMPOSITION
Folate Tablet: Each tablet contains Folic Acid BP 5 mg.
PHARMACOLOGY
Folate (Folic acid), as it is biochemically inactive, is converted to tetrahydrofolic acid and methyltetrahydrofolate by dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). These folic acid congeners are transported across cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis where they are needed to maintain normal erythropoiesis, synthesize purine and thymidylate nucleic acids, interconvert amino acids, methylate tRNA, and generate and use formate. Using vitamin B12 as a cofactor, folic acid can normalize high homocysteine levels by remethylation of homocysteine to methionine via methionine synthetase.
INDICATION
Megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency, prophylaxis and treatment of anemia in pregnancy.
DOSE AND ADMINISTRATION
Adults: Initially, 5 mg daily for 4 months; maintenance, 5 mg every 1-7 days depending on underlying disease.
Child: Upto 1year: 500 mcg/kg daily; Over 1 year: As adult dose.
CONTRAINDICATION
Folic acid is contraindicated in patients who have shown previous intolerance to the drug & Pernicious anemia.
WARNING AND PRECAUTION
It should never be given alone in the treatment of addisonian pernicious anemia and other vitamin B12 deficiency status because it may precipitate the onset of subacute combined degeneration of spinal cord. Do not use in malignant disease unless megalosblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency is an important complication.
SIDE EFFECTS
Folic acid is generally well tolerated. Nausea, anorexia, abdominal distension and flatulence may develop.
USE IN PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
In pregnancy: Pregnancy Category A. Folic acid is usually indicated in the treatment of megaloblastic anemias of pregnancy. Folic acid requirements are markedly increased during pregnancy, and deficiency will result in fetal damage.
In lactation: Folic acid is excreted in the milk of lactating mothers. During lactation, folic acid requirements are markedly increased; however, amounts present in human milk are adequate to fulfill infant requirements, although supplementation may be needed in low-birth-weight infants, in those who are breast-fed by mothers with folic acid deficiency (50 µg daily), or in those with infections or prolonged diarrhea.
DRUG INTERACTION
There is evidence that the anticonvulsant action of phenytoin is antagonized by folic acid.
STORAGE
Store in a cool & dry place below 30º C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
PACKING
Folate Tablet: Each box containing 10 x10’s tablets in blister pack.
