Actifol
Generic Name
Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Aristopharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| actifol 5 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Actifol 5 mg Tablet contains Folic Acid, an essential B vitamin vital for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy. It is used to treat and prevent folic acid deficiency and related anemias.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For deficiency: 5 mg daily for 4 months. For prophylaxis of neural tube defects: 0.4-5 mg daily (as advised by physician).
Elderly
Same as adults, but caution is advised in patients with multiple comorbidities.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but monitor patients with severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food, usually once daily.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is converted to tetrahydrofolate in the body, which is a coenzyme necessary for various metabolic processes including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. It acts as a cofactor in biological reactions involving amino acid metabolism and the maturation of red blood cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Hematopoietic effects can be seen within days to weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted via the renal route (urine).
Half life
Approximately 3-4 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the duodenum and jejunum.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver to tetrahydrofolate and other active forms.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation.
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (as folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms).
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the efficacy of methotrexate (an antifolate).
Sulfasalazine
May inhibit the absorption of folic acid.
Chloramphenicol
May antagonize the hematologic response to folic acid.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone
May reduce serum levels of these antiepileptics, potentially leading to increased seizure frequency.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Folic acid is generally considered non-toxic, even in large doses. Overdose may rarely cause mild gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, or sleep disturbances. Treatment is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Actifol (Folic Acid) is highly recommended during pregnancy for the prevention of neural tube defects. It is considered safe and essential during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation.
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (as folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms).
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the efficacy of methotrexate (an antifolate).
Sulfasalazine
May inhibit the absorption of folic acid.
Chloramphenicol
May antagonize the hematologic response to folic acid.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone
May reduce serum levels of these antiepileptics, potentially leading to increased seizure frequency.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Folic acid is generally considered non-toxic, even in large doses. Overdose may rarely cause mild gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, or sleep disturbances. Treatment is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Actifol (Folic Acid) is highly recommended during pregnancy for the prevention of neural tube defects. It is considered safe and essential during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by health authorities
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Folic acid has been extensively studied for decades, and its efficacy and safety are well-established through numerous clinical trials and observational studies, particularly in the prevention of neural tube defects.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete blood count (CBC) to monitor the response to treatment for anemia.
- Serum folate levels if folic acid deficiency is suspected or to confirm treatment efficacy.
- Serum vitamin B12 levels should always be checked to rule out B12 deficiency.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the critical role of folic acid in pregnancy for neural tube defect prevention.
- Always assess for vitamin B12 deficiency before initiating high-dose folic acid therapy, especially in megaloblastic anemia, to avoid masking B12 deficiency.
- Counsel patients on potential drug interactions, particularly with antiepileptics and antifolates.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Actifol 5 mg Tablet regularly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss your folic acid needs with your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Actifol 5 mg Tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fortified grains.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it may interfere with folic acid absorption.
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