Folic acid is used to treat or prevent certain anemias
caused by poor diet, pregnancy, alcoholism, liver disease, certain
stomach/intestinal problems, kidney dialysis, or other conditions. This
medication helps to relieve symptoms such as unusual tiredness and diarrhea
that can occur with these types of anemias. Women of childbearing age
should maintain adequate amounts of folic acid either through diet or
supplements to prevent spinal cord birth defects.
Folic acid is a B-complex vitamin needed to form healthy
cells, especially red blood cells.
This medication is given by injection into a muscle or
vein or under the skin as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on
your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home,
learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care
professional. Before using, check this product for particles or
discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to
store and discard medical supplies safely.
Folic acid usually has very few side effects. If you
have any unusual effects from taking this medicine, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using folic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- kidney disease
- vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia)
This product may contain aluminum, which can rarely
build up to dangerous levels in the body. The risk may be increased if this
product is used for an extended time, especially in people with kidney
disease. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms of too much
aluminum in the body such as muscle weakness, bone pain, or mental
changes.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Folic acid is safe to take during pregnancy when used as
directed. Certain spinal cord birth defects may be prevented by maintaining
adequate amounts of folic acid during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for
more details.
This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely
to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before
breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
A product that may interact with this drug
is:
Folic acid may interfere with certain lab tests (such as
certain tests for vitamin B12 deficiency), possibly causing false test
results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this
drug.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count)
may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab
appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Folic acid is naturally found in leafy greens, beans,
organ meats (liver, kidney), and citrus fruits. You will also find it in
enriched bread, pasta and cereal. Consult your doctor or dietician for a
diet plan rich in folic acid.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from light. Keep all
medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.
