Topup
Generic Name
Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Example Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| topup 5 mg tablet | ৳ 18.00 | ৳ 72.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Topup 5 mg tablet contains Folic Acid, a form of Vitamin B. It is essential for the production of red blood cells and for proper cell growth and function. It is used to treat or prevent folate deficiency anemia and as a supplement during pregnancy.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 0.5-5 mg daily, depending on the condition. For folate deficiency anemia: 5 mg daily for 4 months. For prevention of neural tube defects: 0.4 mg to 5 mg daily (usually 5 mg if high risk).
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, no specific adjustment needed unless severe renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Oral. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Folic acid is a precursor to tetrahydrofolic acid, which is a coenzyme for various metabolic processes, including DNA synthesis and repair, and cell division. It helps in the maturation of red blood cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours, clinical response (e.g., reticulocytosis) observed within 3-5 days.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine as metabolites and unconjugated folic acid, particularly with higher doses.
Half life
Approximately several hours (e.g., 30 minutes to a few hours for reduced folates).
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily from the proximal small intestine.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver to tetrahydrofolate and other reduced folates, which are metabolically active.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms while neurologic damage progresses)
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid may interfere with the antifolate effects of methotrexate. Higher doses of folic acid may be required or administered at a different time.
Pyrimethamine
Reduced efficacy of pyrimethamine in malaria or toxoplasmosis treatment.
Sulfasalazine
May decrease folic acid absorption.
Phenytoin (and other anticonvulsants like carbamazepine, phenobarbital)
Folic acid can decrease the serum levels of phenytoin, potentially leading to increased seizure activity. Anticonvulsant dosages may need adjustment.
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 well-tolerated even at high doses. Acute overdose is rare and usually asymptomatic. Chronic high doses may mask vitamin B12 deficiency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Safe for use during lactation. Consult doctor for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to folic acid or any component of the formulation
- Untreated pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12 deficiencies (folic acid can mask B12 deficiency symptoms while neurologic damage progresses)
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid may interfere with the antifolate effects of methotrexate. Higher doses of folic acid may be required or administered at a different time.
Pyrimethamine
Reduced efficacy of pyrimethamine in malaria or toxoplasmosis treatment.
Sulfasalazine
May decrease folic acid absorption.
Phenytoin (and other anticonvulsants like carbamazepine, phenobarbital)
Folic acid can decrease the serum levels of phenytoin, potentially leading to increased seizure activity. Anticonvulsant dosages may need adjustment.
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 well-tolerated even at high doses. Acute overdose is rare and usually asymptomatic. Chronic high doses may mask vitamin B12 deficiency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Safe for use during lactation. Consult doctor for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical data supports the efficacy and safety of folic acid for its approved indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum folate levels (if deficiency suspected)
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential
- Serum Vitamin B12 levels (to rule out B12 deficiency)
Doctor Notes
- Always rule out Vitamin B12 deficiency before initiating high-dose folic acid therapy.
- Advise patients on the importance of adherence, especially for pregnant women.
- Monitor patients on anticonvulsants for changes in seizure control.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose 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 the dose.
Driving Precautions
Folic acid is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in folate (e.g., leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans).
- Limit alcohol intake, as it can affect folate absorption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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