Folic Acid

Dosage Forms Available

• Folic Acid can be taken orally (tablet).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• It is intended for adults and children younger than a year with an appropriate dosage.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergy to folic acid and in cancer patients.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Avoid taking antibiotics (trimethoprim and sulphonamides), tumour medications (Fluorouracil), antacids containing aluminium or magnesium and anticonvulsants (phenytoin), medications to treat inflammatory bowel conditions, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, (sulfasalazine), cholesterol-lowering medications (cholestyramine), preparations containing zinc such as vitamins or food supplements. These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of Folic Acid.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• If, by accident, you take an overdose of Folic Acid, you may experience nausea, abdominal distension and flatulence. Consult your doctor if you experience these side effects. Strict adherence to the prescribed dose is essential. 
• If you miss a dose of Folic Acid, take it as soon as you remember. But if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.

Management of Side Effects

• Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• It is unlikely to impair the mental alertness or coordination required while driving.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• This medicine can be taken during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, please speak with your doctor before taking this medicine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution is advised in patients undergoing haemodialysis due to kidney failure, if you are receiving a coronary stent (a tube that is inserted in the artery that leads to the heart to stop blockages), if you suffer from pernicious anaemia (a disorder preventing the absorption of vitamin B12) or a lack of vitamin B12, and if you have a tumour.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Folic acid can worsen the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. It should never be used to treat anaemia without a full investigation of the cause.
• Do not stop taking this medicine until your doctor tells you to do so.
• Consume foods high in natural folate, such as leafy greens (spinach, kale, and broccoli), legumes (lentils and chickpeas), citrus fruits (oranges and grapefruits), and fortified cereals.
• Whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oats are good sources of folate. Incorporate them into your diet to boost your folate intake.