Folita
Generic Name
Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Renata Limited (examples in Bangladesh)
Country
Bangladesh (and other countries)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| folita 5 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9, is essential for numerous bodily functions including cell growth and division, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production. It is particularly crucial during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in infants.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For folate deficiency: 5 mg daily for 4 months; then 0.4 mg to 5 mg daily for maintenance. For pregnancy prevention of neural tube defects: 0.4 mg to 5 mg daily (depending on risk factors).
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but monitoring for B12 deficiency is crucial.
Pregnancy
0.4 mg to 5 mg daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment typically needed.
How to Take
Usually taken orally once daily, with or without food. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is a precursor to tetrahydrofolate, a coenzyme involved in single-carbon transfers in the synthesis of purine and pyrimidine bases, which are components of DNA and RNA, and in the metabolism of certain amino acids. It is vital for normal erythropoiesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may take several days to weeks to manifest, depending on the severity of deficiency.
Excretion
Excreted mainly by the kidneys, with excess amounts excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half life
Approximately 30-60 minutes in the plasma for unmetabolized folic acid; for total folates, it's longer.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to active forms (e.g., 5-methyltetrahydrofolate).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation.
- •Untreated pernicious anemia (can mask symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency while neurological damage progresses).
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
Folic acid can decrease phenytoin levels, potentially leading to seizures.
Barbiturates
May increase folate requirements.
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate (a folate antagonist) for certain conditions, but is also used to mitigate methotrexate toxicity.
Pyrimethamine
Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of pyrimethamine.
Sulfasalazine
May impair folic acid absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Folic acid has very low toxicity. Doses up to 15 mg daily are generally well-tolerated. High doses may rarely cause gastrointestinal upset, sleep disturbances, or allergic reactions.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Folic acid is highly recommended before conception and throughout pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. It is also safe and compatible with breastfeeding, as it is naturally present in breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics worldwide.
Approval Status
Widely approved globally
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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