Folicid
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 |
|---|---|---|
| folicid 10 mg injection | ৳ 600.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a water-soluble B-vitamin, crucial for cell growth and DNA synthesis. It is primarily used to prevent and treat megaloblastic anemia caused by folate deficiency, and as a supplement during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For megaloblastic anemia: 5-15 mg daily. For prophylaxis during pregnancy (high risk): 4-5 mg daily, starting before conception. For general prophylaxis/deficiency: 0.4-1 mg daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, follow adult dosage.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment required, as folic acid is water-soluble and excreted renally, but significant impairment rarely requires adjustment.
How to Take
For intramuscular (IM), intravenous (IV), or subcutaneous (SC) administration. The injection should be administered slowly when given intravenously.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is converted to tetrahydrofolate, a coenzyme necessary for various metabolic processes including DNA synthesis and repair, cell division, and red blood cell production. It participates in single-carbon transfers, crucial for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours for hematological response (e.g., reticulocytosis), days to weeks for full therapeutic effect.
Excretion
Excreted in urine, primarily as metabolites. Excess amounts are excreted unchanged.
Half life
Approximately 15-20 minutes (for unbound folic acid), but intracellular folate compounds have longer half-lives.
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (oral). For injection, absorption into systemic circulation is immediate and complete.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to active tetrahydrofolate and its derivatives.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies, as folic acid can mask the symptoms of B12 deficiency while neurological damage progresses.
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate (a folate antagonist). Folinic acid (leucovorin) is typically used for 'rescue' from methotrexate toxicity.
Sulfasalazine
May inhibit the absorption of folic acid.
Pyrimethamine, Trimethoprim
These are dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors and can reduce the effect of folic acid. Folic acid supplementation might be needed.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., Phenytoin, Phenobarbital)
Folic acid can lower serum levels of some anticonvulsants, potentially reducing their efficacy and increasing seizure risk. Conversely, anticonvulsants can lower folate levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Folic acid has a very low toxicity profile. Acute overdose is rare and usually asymptomatic. Large doses may cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances or allergic reactions. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic. Excess is excreted renally.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category A. Folic acid is essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. It is considered safe and beneficial. Folic acid is excreted into breast milk and is safe for nursing infants. Supplementation may be necessary during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies, as folic acid can mask the symptoms of B12 deficiency while neurological damage progresses.
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate (a folate antagonist). Folinic acid (leucovorin) is typically used for 'rescue' from methotrexate toxicity.
Sulfasalazine
May inhibit the absorption of folic acid.
Pyrimethamine, Trimethoprim
These are dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors and can reduce the effect of folic acid. Folic acid supplementation might be needed.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., Phenytoin, Phenobarbital)
Folic acid can lower serum levels of some anticonvulsants, potentially reducing their efficacy and increasing seizure risk. Conversely, anticonvulsants can lower folate levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Folic acid has a very low toxicity profile. Acute overdose is rare and usually asymptomatic. Large doses may cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances or allergic reactions. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic. Excess is excreted renally.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category A. Folic acid is essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. It is considered safe and beneficial. Folic acid is excreted into breast milk and is safe for nursing infants. Supplementation may be necessary during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 2-3 years, refer to product label for specific details.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved (Globally well-established)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials and extensive use have established the efficacy and safety of folic acid for its indicated uses, especially in the prevention of neural tube defects and treatment of megaloblastic anemia.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum folate levels (especially for deficiency diagnosis and monitoring response).
- Complete blood count (CBC) to monitor anemia.
- Serum Vitamin B12 levels (to rule out B12 deficiency before treating with high dose folic acid).
Doctor Notes
- Always rule out Vitamin B12 deficiency before initiating high-dose folic acid therapy.
- Monitor patients on anticonvulsants for potential drug interactions.
- Advise pregnant women to start supplementation before conception.
Patient Guidelines
- Follow your doctor's instructions for dosage and administration.
- Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
- Report any unusual side effects or allergic reactions to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, 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.
Driving Precautions
Folic acid is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in folate (e.g., leafy greens, fruits, fortified cereals).
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can interfere with folate absorption.
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