Medicine Information

Flavit-M

Name: Flavit-M
Brand: Flavit-M
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

TabletFolic Acid 0.5 mg + Methylcobalamin 500 mcgVitamins & minerals, HematinicATC: B03BB51

Generic Name

Folic Acid + Methylcobalamin

Manufacturer

Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
flavit m tablet	৳ 1.50	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Flavit-M Tablet is a nutritional supplement containing Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) and Methylcobalamin (active form of Vitamin B12). It is used to prevent and treat deficiencies of these vitamins, which can lead to conditions like megaloblastic anemia and certain neurological disorders. It supports healthy cell growth, red blood cell formation, and nervous system function.

Uses & Indications

Megaloblastic anemia due to Folic Acid or Vitamin B12 deficiency

Nutritional deficiencies of Folic Acid and Vitamin B12

As a supplement during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects

Peripheral neuropathy and other neurological disorders associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency

To support overall nerve health and red blood cell formation

Dosage

Adults

Typically 1 tablet once daily, or as directed by a physician. Dosage may vary based on the severity of deficiency and individual needs.

Elderly

No specific dosage adjustment is usually required for elderly patients, but caution is advised in those with significant renal or hepatic impairment.

Renal_impairment

Generally, no dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, consult a physician.

How to Take

Take orally with water, with or without food. Follow the physician's instructions regarding duration of treatment.

Mechanism of Action

Folic acid is critical for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, which are essential for rapid cell division and growth, especially important in red blood cell production. Methylcobalamin acts as a coenzyme in the methionine synthase pathway, essential for the synthesis of DNA and proper neurological function, including myelin sheath formation.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Therapeutic effects may take several weeks to months to become evident, depending on the severity and duration of deficiency.

Excretion

Folic acid is primarily excreted in the urine. Methylcobalamin is excreted mainly via bile and partially reabsorbed via enterohepatic circulation; a small amount is excreted in the urine.

Half life

Folic acid has a plasma half-life of about 3-9 hours. Methylcobalamin is stored in the liver and has a variable half-life, with excretion being slow.

Absorption

Folic acid is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Methylcobalamin is absorbed via an intrinsic factor-mediated process in the ileum and also by passive diffusion at higher doses.

Metabolism

Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to its active form, tetrahydrofolate. Methylcobalamin undergoes conversion to other active cobalamin forms.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Folic Acid, Methylcobalamin, or any other components of the tablet.
Undiagnosed megaloblastic anemia: Vitamin B12 can mask symptoms of folate deficiency, so underlying B12 deficiency should be ruled out before initiating high-dose folic acid.
Patients with active malignancy (unless specifically directed by a doctor, as folic acid might promote tumor growth in some cancers).

Drug Interactions

Metformin

May reduce the absorption of Vitamin B12, requiring B12 supplementation.

Methotrexate

Folic acid may reduce the efficacy of methotrexate, an antifolate drug.

Chloramphenicol

May antagonize the hematological response to Vitamin B12.

Colchicine, Neomycin

May impair the absorption of Vitamin B12.

Anticonvulsants (e.g., Phenytoin, Phenobarbital)

May lower serum folate levels, necessitating higher doses of folic acid.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Folic Acid and Methylcobalamin have low toxicity. Acute overdose is rare and generally does not cause severe adverse effects. Very high doses of folic acid, however, might mask symptoms of an underlying Vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially leading to irreversible neurological damage if the B12 deficiency remains untreated. Treatment for overdose is usually supportive and symptomatic.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Flavit-M is generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy (especially for folic acid to prevent neural tube defects) and lactation. However, always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication or supplement during these periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on storage conditions.

Availability

Pharmacies, drugstores

Approval Status

Approved and widely available

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

The efficacy and safety of Folic Acid and Methylcobalamin are well-established through numerous clinical trials and extensive clinical use for treating respective vitamin deficiencies and related conditions. Specific brand-level trials for generic combinations are less common.

Lab Monitoring

Serum Folic Acid levels
Serum Vitamin B12 levels
Complete Blood Count (CBC) to monitor red blood cell indices (e.g., MCV) and hemoglobin.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize the importance of ruling out Vitamin B12 deficiency before initiating high-dose folic acid, especially in cases of undiagnosed megaloblastic anemia.
Counsel patients, particularly pregnant women and strict vegetarians/vegans, on the importance of adequate intake of these vitamins.
Monitor patients for neurological symptoms if B12 deficiency is suspected or known.

Patient Guidelines

Take Flavit-M exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your physician.
Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Flavit-M is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience any side effects that impair your concentration or vision, avoid such activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Adopt a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet to support overall health and vitamin levels.
Limit or avoid alcohol consumption, as it can interfere with vitamin absorption.