Folic acid – what is it for, how to take it and against indications!

Folic acid  is a type of B vitamin normally found in foods such as beans , peas , lentils , oranges , whole wheat , liver, asparagus , beets , broccoli , brussels sprouts, and spinach .

In addition, it helps the body produce and maintain new cells, as well as helping to prevent DNA changes that can lead to cancer. As a medication, it is used to treat deficiency and certain types of anemia (lack of red blood cells) caused by deficiency.

Folic acid  is sometimes used in combination with other medicines to treat pernicious anemia . However, it will not treat vitamin B12 deficiency and will not prevent possible spinal cord damage. Take all your medications as directed.

Before taking folic acid , tell your doctor if you have kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis), an infection, if you are an alcoholic, or if you have any type of anemia that has not been diagnosed by a doctor and confirmed with laboratory tests.

Talk to your doctor about taking it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Additionally, it is sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat pernicious anemia .

However, it will not treat vitamin B12 deficiency and will not prevent possible spinal cord damage. Take all your medications as directed.

How should I take folic acid?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Take folic acid with a full glass of water .

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose of folic acid?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose on folic acid?

 Seek emergency medical attention if you think you’ve used this medication too much. Symptoms of overdose may include numbness or tingling, pain in the mouth or tongue, weakness, feeling confused, or difficulty concentrating.

What should I avoid if I take folic acid?

Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, drink, or activity.

Folic acid side effects:

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; breathing difficulty; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Less serious side effects are more likely, but may include:

• Nausea , loss of appetite;
• Bloating, gas;
• Bitter or unpleasant taste in your mouth;
• sound problems;
• depression ;
• Feeling excited or irritated.

Precautions before taking folic acid:

You should not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction. If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to use safely:

• Kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis)
• Hemolytic anemia ;
• pernicious anemia ;
• Anemia that has not been diagnosed by a doctor and confirmed with laboratory tests;
• If you are an alcoholic;
• FDA in pregnancy category A.

Folic acid is not expected to  be harmful to an unborn baby, and your dose requirements may even increase while you are pregnant. Talk to your doctor about taking it during pregnancy.

Your dose needs may also be different if you are breast-feeding a baby. Ask your doctor about use if you are breast-feeding.

Will other medications affect folic acid?

The dosages of other medications you take may need to be changed while you are taking folic acid . Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:

• Phenytoin  ;
• Methotrexate ;
• Nitrofurantoína;
• Pirimetamina;
• Tetracycline;
• Seizure medication, such as phenytoin or primidone.