folic acid

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a important role in a variety of bodily functions. Some of its key actions include: 

• DNA synthesis: folic acid is essential for the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material in our cells. It is required for the production and repair of DNA, which is necessary for the growth and division of cells. 
• Red blood cell production: folic acid is needed for the production of RBC, which carry oxygen throughout the body. 

The spectrum of folic acid refers to the range of conditions and diseases that can be prevented or treated with folic acid supplementation. folic acid has been shown to be effectual in preventing and treating a variety of health conditions, including: 

• Neural tube defects: Taking folic acid supplements before and while pregnancy can help prevent neural tube defects, like spina bifida, in the developing fetus. 
• Anemia: folic acid deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells. folic acid supplementation can help treat anemia caused by a deficiency of this vitamin. 
• Cardiovascular disease: folic acid may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of homocysteine. 
• Depression: folic acid supplementation may be helpful in treating depression, especially in people who have low levels of this vitamin. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Malaise  

Erythema 

Bronchospasm 

Slight flushing 

Rash 

Pruritus  

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

• Vitamin B12 deficiency: folic acid should not be used to treat anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency unless vitamin B12 deficiency has been ruled out. 
• Seizure disorders: High doses of folic acid may enhance the frequency and severity of seizures in people with seizure disorders. 
• Cancer: folic acid supplements may stimulate the growth of existing cancers or increase the risk of developing certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, in people with a history of cancer. 
• Allergies: People who are allergic to folic acid or any of the inactive ingredients in folic acid supplements should not take them. 
• Drug interactions: folic acid can interact with certain medications, including some anticonvulsants, methotrexate, and sulfasalazine. Consult a healthcare professional before taking folic acid supplements if you are taking any medications. 

Caution 

• Pregnancy: folic acid supplementation is recommended for all women like in pregnancy condition, as it can help prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. However, high doses of folic acid should be avoided during pregnancy. 
• Age: As people age, their ability to absorb folic acid from food decreases. Therefore, older adults may need to supplement their diet with folic acid to ensure adequate intake. 
• Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to folic acid deficiency, as it interferes with the absorption and utilization of this vitamin. People with alcoholism may need to supplement their diet with folic acid to correct this deficiency. 
• Kidney disease: high doses of this vitamin can pileup in the body and cause toxicity, People with kidney disease may need to adjust their folic acid intake 
• Other medical conditions: People with conditions, such as epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease, may need to take caution when taking folic acid, as it can interact with some medications used to treat these conditions. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

AU TGA pregnancy category: A
US FDA pregnancy category: A 

Lactation:   

Excreted into human milk: Yes. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show risk to the fetus in the first/later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women        
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

Pharmacologically, folic acid can be used as a supplement to treat or prevent folate deficiency, which can lead to anemia, birth defects, and other health problems. folic acid supplements are also commonly used to diminish the risk of neural tube defects in pregnant women. 

folic acid works by converting into its active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), in the body. 5-MTHF is a coenzyme that plays a critical role in several metabolic pathways, including the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, which is important for the synthesis of proteins and other molecules in the body 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of action: It is essential for the formation of coenzymes in metabolic systems, particularly in purine and pyrimidine synthesis, which are necessary for maintaining erythropoiesis. In cases of folate deficiency anemia, it also stimulates platelet production. Moreover, it facilitates the elimination of formic acid in methanol toxicity by providing a coenzyme to folate dehydrogenase. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

It is absorbed in the proximal part of the small intestine. When taken orally, the onset of action typically occurs within 0.5 to 1 hour. 

Distribution 

unknown 

Metabolism 

It is metabolised in liver. 

Elimination and Excretion 

Excretion is through urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Oral administration 

The administration of folic acid can be done orally, usually in the form of tablets or capsules. The recommended dose varies depending on the age, gender, and medical condition of the individual. For most people, the recommended daily dose of folic acid is 400 micrograms (mcg). 

folic acid is generally safe when taken as recommended.  

It is recommended to consult with a physician before starting any new supplement or medication regimen, including folic acid. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance on the appropriate dose and duration of treatment based on your individual needs and medical history. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: folic acid 

Pronounced: [ FOE-lik-AS-id ] 

Why do we use folic acid? 

folic acid is a B-vitamin that plays an important role in several bodily functions. Here are some of the uses of folic acid: 

• Prevention of neural tube defects: folic acid is essential for the development of the nervous system in a developing fetus. It is recommended that all women with pregnancy take folic acid to stops neural tube defects, such as anencephaly and spina bifida in their babies. 
• Treatment of folate deficiency: Folate deficiency can lead to anemia, which is a condition where there are not enough RBC to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. folic acid supplementation can help to treat folate deficiency anemia. 
• Cardiovascular health: folic acid can help to lower homocysteine levels, which are associated with an enhanced risk of heart disease and stroke. folic acid supplementation has been shown to upgrade cardiovascular health in some individuals. 
• Mental health: folic acid is essential for the making of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which are important for mood regulation. folic acid supplementation may help to improve symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. 
• Cancer prevention: Some studies have suggested that folic acid may help to prevent certain types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer. 
• It is key to note that folic acid should be taken as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, and not as a substitute for other medical treatments. If you have a medical condition, it is always best to meet with a physician before starting any new supplement or medication regimen.