Medivit
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 |
|---|---|---|
| medivit 5 mg tablet | ৳ 0.60 | ৳ 6.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Medivit 5 mg Tablet contains Folic Acid, a B vitamin essential for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. It is used to treat and prevent folate deficiency and certain types of anemia.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 5 mg daily for 4 months; then 5 mg every 1-7 days depending on the underlying cause. For prophylaxis in pregnancy: 0.4-5 mg daily.
Elderly
Same as adult dose, but caution with potential B12 deficiency masking.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment required, but caution in dialysis patients due to potential loss.
How to Take
Oral. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is converted to tetrahydrofolate, which is a coenzyme for various metabolic processes including DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell production.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may be seen within days, with resolution of megaloblastic anemia over weeks.
Excretion
Excreted in the urine as metabolites and unconverted folic acid, especially with high doses.
Half life
Approximately 30-90 minutes (for un-metabolized folic acid). For metabolites, it's longer.
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily from the duodenum and jejunum. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Mainly in the liver to dihydrofolate and tetrahydrofolate. Also undergoes enterohepatic recirculation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms while neurological damage progresses)
- Known hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
Folic acid may decrease phenytoin levels, potentially leading to seizures. Monitor levels.
Methotrexate
Folic acid can antagonize the effects of methotrexate. Dosage adjustments may be needed.
Sulfasalazine
May decrease folic acid absorption.
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 well-tolerated even at high doses. Symptoms are rare but may include gastrointestinal disturbances. Treatment is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Also safe during lactation, as folate is excreted in breast milk in small amounts.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms while neurological damage progresses)
- Known hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
Folic acid may decrease phenytoin levels, potentially leading to seizures. Monitor levels.
Methotrexate
Folic acid can antagonize the effects of methotrexate. Dosage adjustments may be needed.
Sulfasalazine
May decrease folic acid absorption.
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 well-tolerated even at high doses. Symptoms are rare but may include gastrointestinal disturbances. Treatment is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Also safe during lactation, as folate is excreted in breast milk in small amounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA/FDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical data supports the efficacy and safety of folic acid in preventing and treating folate deficiency and associated conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum folate levels
- Red blood cell folate levels
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) to monitor anemia
- Vitamin B12 levels (to rule out B12 deficiency)
Doctor Notes
- Always rule out Vitamin B12 deficiency before initiating folic acid therapy, especially in elderly patients, to avoid masking symptoms and allowing neurological damage to progress.
- Counsel patients on the importance of adherence, especially during pregnancy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Driving Precautions
Folic acid is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in folate-containing foods.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Regular check-ups with your doctor are important, especially if you have chronic conditions.
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.