PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Folic Acid 5 mg
• Drug class: Vitamin supplement (Vitamin B9)

Uses / Indications

Used for:

• Prevention and treatment of folate deficiency
• Certain types of anaemia (megaloblastic anaemia)
• Pregnancy supplementation to help prevent neural tube defects in babies
• Support during increased folate demand:
• Pregnancy
• Chronic illness
• Malnutrition
• Sometimes used with medicines that reduce folate levels

Direction for Use

• Usually taken once daily
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow with water
• Take exactly as prescribed
• Pregnancy supplementation may continue before conception and during pregnancy

Side Effects

Folic acid is generally well tolerated.

Possible side effects:

• Nausea
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Bitter taste

Rare:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)

Warnings

• High doses may mask Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can delay diagnosis of nerve damage
• Use under medical supervision in long-term therapy
• Do not exceed prescribed dose unnecessarily

Interactions

May interact with:

• Anti-seizure medicines (e.g., phenytoin)
• Methotrexate
• Sulfasalazine
• Certain antibiotics

Some medicines may reduce folic acid absorption or activity.

Cautions

Use carefully in:

• Patients with unexplained anaemia
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Chronic alcohol use
• Malabsorption disorders