Folic Acid (patient information)
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Why this medication is prescribed
Folic acid is used to treat or prevent folic acid deficiency. It is a B-complex vitamin needed by the body to manufacture red blood cells. A deficiency of this vitamin causes certain types of anemia (low red blood cell count).
How this medication should be used
Folic acid comes in tablets. It usually is taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take folic acid exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you are taking folic acid to treat a deficiency, you probably will feel better quickly, often within 24 hours. However, do not stop taking this drug until your doctor tells you to do so.
Other uses for this medicine
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Special precautions
Before taking folic acid:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to folic acid or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially phenytoin (Dilantin) and vitamins.
Special dietary instructions
Your doctor may tell you to eat more liver, foods prepared from dried yeast, fruit, and fresh leafy green vegetables to increase the folic acid in your diet.
What to do if you forget a dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Side effects
Folic acid may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash
- itching
- redness
- difficulty breathing
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Storage conditions needed for this medication
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Other information
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to folic acid.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Brand names
- Folvite®