Asivit
Generic Name
Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| asivit 5 mg tablet | ৳ 0.41 | ৳ 6.20 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folic Acid 5 mg tablet is a synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin. It is primarily used to prevent and treat folate deficiency and associated megaloblastic anemia. It is also crucial during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose is 0.5-5 mg daily, depending on the indication. For folate deficiency, 5 mg daily for 4 months, then 5 mg every 1-7 days. For pregnancy, 0.4-5 mg daily.
Elderly
Same as adult dose; no specific dose adjustment required unless significant renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, monitor folate levels.
How to Take
Oral. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is essential for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, and is critical for cell division, growth, and proper formation of red blood cells. It acts as a coenzyme in various metabolic processes, particularly in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines and the metabolism of amino acids.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Several days to weeks for therapeutic effect in deficiency states.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via the kidneys, with some biliary excretion.
Half life
Approximately 3-4 hours after a single dose; however, the body's folate stores can last for months.
Absorption
Readily 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 (folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms while allowing neurological damage to progress)
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate (a folate antagonist).
Sulfasalazine, Trimethoprim
These drugs can interfere with folic acid absorption or metabolism.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone
Folic acid may reduce serum levels of these antiepileptics.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Folic acid is generally considered non-toxic at high doses. Rarely, gastrointestinal disturbances, sleep disorders, or allergic reactions may occur. Management is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Folic acid is essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. It is safe and often recommended during both pregnancy and lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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