Refolic
Generic Name
L-Methylfolate Calcium
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| refolic 5 mg tablet | ৳ 0.27 | ৳ 2.70 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Refolic contains L-Methylfolate, an active form of folic acid, essential for numerous bodily functions including DNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and red blood cell production. It is used to manage folate deficiency and associated conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 7.5 mg or 15 mg once daily.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, no specific adjustment needed.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment required.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
L-Methylfolate is the primary biologically active form of folate. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is crucial for the methylation cycle, synthesizing neurotransmitters, and converting homocysteine to methionine, thereby reducing homocysteine levels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may take weeks to manifest, depending on the deficiency.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via urine, with some biliary excretion.
Half life
Approximately 3-4 hours for total folates, but biological effects persist longer due to tissue storage.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed, peak plasma concentration reached within 1-3 hours.
Metabolism
L-Methylfolate is the active form and does not require further metabolism by dihydrofolate reductase. It is metabolized to other folate derivatives.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to L-Methylfolate or any component of the formulation.
- •Patients with pernicious anemia without concomitant vitamin B12 supplementation.
Drug Interactions
Trimethoprim, Pyrimethamine
Can inhibit dihydrofolate reductase, potentially affecting folate metabolism.
Folic acid antagonists (e.g., methotrexate)
May reduce L-Methylfolate's effect.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital)
May reduce L-Methylfolate efficacy and vice-versa. Monitor folate levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
L-Methylfolate has very low toxicity. No serious adverse effects are expected with overdose. Management is generally supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
L-Methylfolate is generally considered safe during pregnancy and lactation. It is often prescribed to pregnant women to prevent folate deficiency and neural tube defects. Consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic available
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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