Generic Folic Acid

Folic acid is used to treat or prevent certain anemias caused by poor diet, pregnancy, alcoholism, liver disease, certain stomach/intestinal problems, kidney dialysis, or other conditions. This medication helps to relieve symptoms such as unusual tiredness and diarrhea that can occur with these types of anemias. Women of childbearing age should maintain adequate amounts of folic acid either through diet or supplements to prevent spinal cord birth defects. Folic acid is a B-complex vitamin needed to form healthy cells, especially red blood cells.

This medication is given by injection into a muscle or vein or under the skin, usually by a health care professional. Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.

Before using folic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia). This product may contain aluminum, which can infrequently build up to dangerous levels in the body. The risk may be increased if this product is used for an extended time, especially in people with kidney disease. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms of too much aluminum in the body such as muscle weakness, bone pain, or mental changes. Folic acid is safe to take during pregnancy when used as directed. Certain spinal cord birth defects may be prevented by maintaining adequate amounts of folic acid during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details. This medication passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: chloramphenicol, methotrexate. Folic acid may affect certain laboratory tests for vitamin B12 deficiency, resulting in false test results. Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency may result in serious nerve problems (e.g., peripheral neuropathy with numbness/tingling symptoms). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Folic acid usually has very few side effects. If you have any unusual effects from taking this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.