Folus
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 |
|---|---|---|
| folus 5 mg tablet | ৳ 0.30 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folic acid is a B vitamin (Vitamin B9) essential for cell growth, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. Folus 5mg tablet is used to treat and prevent conditions arising from folate deficiency.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For megaloblastic anemia: 5 mg daily for 4 months (up to 15 mg daily in malabsorption). For prophylaxis of neural tube defects: 0.4-0.8 mg daily, usually started before conception.
Elderly
Similar to adult dose, monitor for underlying conditions and drug interactions.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment generally needed, as excess is excreted.
How to Take
Oral administration. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is reduced to tetrahydrofolate (THF) in the body, which is a coenzyme essential for various metabolic processes including DNA synthesis, RNA synthesis, and amino acid metabolism. It is crucial for cell division and maturation of red blood cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Hematological response usually within days to weeks; peak plasma levels in 1 hour.
Excretion
Primarily via urine; some biliary excretion and enterohepatic recirculation.
Half life
Approximately several hours for reduced forms; plasma half-life of folic acid is around 15-30 minutes.
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the duodenum and jejunum.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver and gastrointestinal tract to dihydrofolate reductase and tetrahydrofolate.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the tablet.
- Untreated pernicious anemia (vitamin B12 deficiency), as folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms while allowing neurological damage to progress.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid reduces the efficacy of methotrexate. Often administered as 'folinic acid rescue' to counteract methotrexate toxicity.
Sulfasalazine
May inhibit the absorption and metabolism of folic acid.
Trimethoprim, Pyrimethamine
These drugs are folate antagonists and can interfere with folate metabolism, potentially reducing the effect of folic acid.
Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone)
Folic acid can reduce serum levels of some antiepileptics, potentially leading to increased seizure frequency.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Folic acid is generally considered non-toxic even at high doses. Excess is usually excreted in the urine. Rarely, high doses may cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances or allergic reactions. Management is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Folic acid is essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects and is safe and recommended during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Generic (off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Folic acid has been extensively studied for decades, and its efficacy and safety are well-established through numerous clinical trials and widespread clinical use.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum folate levels and red cell folate levels (to assess deficiency).
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential (to monitor anemia response).
- Vitamin B12 levels (important to rule out B12 deficiency if megaloblastic anemia is present).
Doctor Notes
- Crucial to rule out Vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia) before initiating high-dose folic acid therapy alone for megaloblastic anemia, as folic acid can mask hematological symptoms while neurological damage progresses.
- Advise pregnant patients on the importance of periconceptional folic acid supplementation.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Folus 5mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
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 dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Folus 5mg tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in natural folate sources like leafy green vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can impair folate absorption and metabolism.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.