What are the uses, side effects, interactions and dosage of Folic Acid?
Uses of Folic Acid - Fights deficiency of folic acid - Improves End-Stage Renal Kidney Disease - Lowers high blood level of homocysteine - Reduces the side effects of methotrexate e.g. nausea, vomiting - Reduces the risk of neural tube birth defects e.g. Spina Bifida, Anencephaly Side effects of Folic Acid - Nausea and vomiting - Stomach upset - Diarrhea - Abdominal cramps - Flatulence - Skin reactions - Rash - Irritability - Excitability - Sleeping problems - Confusion Interactions of Folic Acid - Pyrimethamine - Primidone - Phenytoin - Phenobarbital - Methotrexate - Fosphenytoin Suggested dosage of folic acid is 400 mcg DFE for adults. Consult your doctor for exact dosage.
MENU Everyday Health Logo NEWSLETTERS DRUGS & SUPPLEMENTS Folic Acid (FA-8) Brand Names:FA-8, Folacin-800 By Julie Marks Medically Reviewed by Justin Laube, MD Last Updated: December 22, 2020 Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate — a naturally occurring B vitamin. Your body needs this nutrient to make new cells. Folic acid is found in supplements and fortified foods, including pasta, bread, rice, and breakfast cereals. As a medicine, folic acid is used to treat certain types of anemia (a lack of red blood cells) and a folic acid deficiency. People who need extra folate in their diet also take folic acid supplements. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that women of reproductive age take folic acid to reduce the risk of birth defects. Folic acid is available in both an over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription form. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting on any new supplement, including folic acid.
