Folidid
Generic Name
Folic Acid 5 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| folidid 5 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folidid 5 mg Tablet contains Folic Acid, a B vitamin essential for various bodily functions, including cell growth and replication. It is primarily used to treat and prevent folate deficiency and certain types of anemia.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For megaloblastic anemia: 5 mg daily for 4 months. For prevention of neural tube defects: 5 mg daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester. Other folate deficiencies: 0.5-1 mg daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for elderly patients, unless there is severe renal impairment. Use adult dosage.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment usually required for mild to moderate renal impairment. In severe impairment, monitor folate levels and use with caution.
How to Take
Folidid 5 mg Tablet should be taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is metabolically reduced to tetrahydrofolate, which is a coenzyme in nucleic acid synthesis (DNA and RNA) and amino acid metabolism. It is crucial for the maturation of red blood cells and for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Metabolic effects within an hour; hematological response usually within days to weeks depending on the severity of deficiency.
Excretion
Mainly via urine as metabolites and un-metabolized folic acid; some also excreted in feces.
Half life
Approximately 30-90 minutes for unbound folate, but metabolically active forms persist longer.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the proximal small intestine (duodenum and jejunum). Peak plasma concentrations occur within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Converted to various metabolically active forms (e.g., tetrahydrofolate, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate) mainly in the liver and intestinal mucosa.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the tablet.
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (as folic acid can mask B12 deficiency and allow neurological damage to progress).
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
Folic acid may reduce serum phenytoin levels, potentially leading to increased seizure activity. Monitor phenytoin levels.
Methotrexate
High doses of folic acid can antagonize the effect of methotrexate, though low doses are often used as a rescue therapy.
Sulfasalazine
May impair the absorption of folic acid.
Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole
These antibiotics can interfere with folic acid metabolism.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital, primidone)
May increase folate requirements and lead to folate deficiency.
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 at high doses. Acute overdose is rare and usually asymptomatic. No specific antidote; symptomatic and supportive treatment can be given if required.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category A. Folic acid is safe and essential during pregnancy and lactation. It is crucial for preventing neural tube defects in the fetus and for maternal health.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the tablet.
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (as folic acid can mask B12 deficiency and allow neurological damage to progress).
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
Folic acid may reduce serum phenytoin levels, potentially leading to increased seizure activity. Monitor phenytoin levels.
Methotrexate
High doses of folic acid can antagonize the effect of methotrexate, though low doses are often used as a rescue therapy.
Sulfasalazine
May impair the absorption of folic acid.
Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole
These antibiotics can interfere with folic acid metabolism.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital, primidone)
May increase folate requirements and lead to folate deficiency.
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 at high doses. Acute overdose is rare and usually asymptomatic. No specific antidote; symptomatic and supportive treatment can be given if required.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category A. Folic acid is safe and essential during pregnancy and lactation. It is crucial for preventing neural tube defects in the fetus and for maternal health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the manufacturing date, as indicated on the packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Folic acid has been extensively studied and its efficacy and safety are well-established through numerous clinical trials and widespread clinical use over many decades, particularly for its role in preventing neural tube defects.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete blood count (CBC) to monitor anemia.
- Serum folate and vitamin B12 levels, especially before treatment to rule out B12 deficiency.
- Reticulocyte count to assess bone marrow response.
Doctor Notes
- Always exclude Vitamin B12 deficiency prior to initiating high-dose folic acid monotherapy, particularly in patients with megaloblastic anemia.
- Emphasize the critical role of periconceptional folic acid supplementation for neural tube defect prevention.
- Advise patients about potential drug interactions, especially with anticonvulsants and methotrexate.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking Folidid 5 mg Tablet without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the importance of folic acid 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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Folidid 5 mg Tablet is generally not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience any side effects like dizziness or fatigue, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in folate-containing foods, such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and fortified cereals.
- Limit or avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can interfere with folate absorption and metabolism.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.