Folic Acid is an anti anaemic drug that belongs to the category of medicines known as haemopoetic agents. It was approved by the FDA in 1996 to treat anaemia.

It is used to treat folic acid deficiency(low levels of red blood cells in the body). It is also treated for anaemia in patients on kidney dialysis (Dialysis works by using a machine to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood). This tablet can also be given during the anaemia in pregnancy.

Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of Folic acid based on the disease condition and other factors. Always take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Take the tablet at the same time everyday, with or without food. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet. Swallow the whole tablet with water. If you forgot to take the tablet, simply take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

The common side effects that are likely to occur with this medicine are loss of appetite, feeling sick, bloating of the stomach, and flatulence. Other serious side effects also include hypersensitivity reactions like itchy skin, rash, swelling of the face and lips, difficulty breathing and cold sweaty skin. Inform your healthcare provider if these side effects concern you or persist for longer than usual.

Folic Acid is not recommended in patients who have hypersensitivity reactions. This medicine may cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. This medicine should be avoided in patients who suffer from pernicious anaemia (a disorder preventing the absorption of vitamin B12) or could be suffering from a lack of vitamin B12. Also, those who received a coronary stent (a tube that is inserted in the artery that leads to the heart, in order to stop blockages) are advised not to take this tablet. If you are undergoing haemodialysis due to kidney failure, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, consult your doctor immediately before taking this medicine. This drug contains lactose as an inactive ingredient in which the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It can cause symptoms such as bloating, and abdominal pain. You are advised to avoid dairy products. If you are breastfeeding please consult with your doctor before taking this medicine. Avoid using the tablet if you have cancer (unless you have anaemia due to a deficiency of folic acid). Care needs to be taken in patients with certain tumours.

It is important to get the dose at the scheduled time. If you missed the schedule, contact your doctor and reschedule the dose. Store Folic Acid tablets at a room temperature (25°C). Keep it out of reach from children. Adequate intake of folic acid can help prevent birth defects, support healthy red blood cell production, and support overall health.

1. Folic Acid 400 microgram . MHRA [Accessed on April 12 2023] https://mhraproductsprod.blob.core.windows.net/docs-20200204/eefc374ad5e2c00373d86b8d21b19a612986986d
2. HPRA.ie [Accessed on April 12 2023] https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/b7d79cb3-6f64-46bd-81da-574bfaa8cba0.pdf

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.