Folita
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 |
|---|---|---|
| folita 5 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folita 5 mg tablet contains Folic Acid, a B vitamin essential for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and proper cell division. It is primarily used to treat and prevent megaloblastic anemia caused by folic acid deficiency, and to prevent neural tube defects in infants when taken by pregnant women.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For megaloblastic anemia, typically 5 mg daily for 4 months. For prevention of neural tube defects, 5 mg daily starting before conception and continuing through the first trimester.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment generally required, but caution in cases of underlying B12 deficiency.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment required.
How to Take
Oral administration. Can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is converted into its metabolically active form, tetrahydrofolate, which is a coenzyme required for DNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and methylation reactions. It is crucial for the maturation of red blood cells and for proper fetal development.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects on erythropoiesis typically begin within a few days, with significant hematological response within 1-2 weeks.
Excretion
Excreted via urine, with excess amounts excreted unchanged.
Half life
Approximately 3-10 minutes for unconjugated folic acid; for its metabolites, it can be longer.
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily from the duodenum and jejunum.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to tetrahydrofolate and other active forms.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation.
- •Undiagnosed megaloblastic anemia (as folic acid can mask vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to neurological damage if B12 deficiency is the underlying cause).
Drug Interactions
Fluorouracil
Folic acid may enhance the toxicity of fluorouracil.
Methotrexate
Folic acid can reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate (a folate antagonist). However, it's often given to reduce methotrexate toxicity.
Pyrimethamine
Folic acid can reduce the antimalarial effect of pyrimethamine.
Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone)
Folic acid may decrease the plasma concentration of these drugs, potentially reducing their effectiveness and increasing seizure risk. Conversely, these drugs can lower folate levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Folic acid is generally considered non-toxic at high doses. However, very high doses (e.g., >15 mg/day) may cause gastrointestinal disturbances, sleep disorders, and irritability. Management is generally symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Essential during pregnancy for preventing neural tube defects. It is also safe and compatible with breastfeeding; often prescribed to lactating mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date. Check product label for exact dates.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Generally approved and widely available
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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