Folic acid: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Folic acid is the supplement form of folate, a B vitamin the body needs to make healthy red blood cells. It is used to treat or prevent folate deficiency anaemia and, in pregnancy, to help a baby's brain and spine develop. Higher-strength tablets are used on a doctor's advice.
Also known as: Folate, Vitamin B9, Folic acid tablet, Folic acid 5 mg, Folic acid 400 mcg
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Folic acid work?
The body needs folate to make new cells, including red blood cells. Folic acid replaces folate when there is too little, so the bone marrow can make normal red blood cells again.
How to take Folic acid
Follow the label or your doctor's advice. The strength depends on the product and the reason for taking it, and some people, such as women at higher risk in pregnancy, are prescribed a higher strength than the usual pregnancy supplement.
Side effects of Folic acid
Most people have no problems with folic acid. Mild stomach effects are the most common.
Uncommon or mild
- Bloating
- Wind
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
Rare but serious: get medical help
- Swelling of the face, throat or tongue, an itchy raised rash or difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis). Get medical help immediately
Who should be careful
Some people should not take folic acid, or should have a doctor check first.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency or pernicious anaemia: folic acid can hide the signs of B12 deficiency while nerve damage continues, so the cause of anaemia should be confirmed by a doctor first
- Allergy to folic acid or any ingredient of the tablet
- Cancer or a coronary stent: the NHS lists these as reasons it may not suit you, so ask your doctor
- Pregnancy or planning a baby: ask a doctor which strength is right for you
- Doses above 1 mg a day can mask vitamin B12 deficiency (NHS)
Medicines and things that interact with Folic acid
Some medicines change the effect of folic acid, or are changed by it. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take.
- Epilepsy medicines such as phenytoin, phenobarbital and primidone
- Antibiotics such as chloramphenicol and co-trimoxazole
- Sulfasalazine, lithium and aspirin
- Alcohol: the NHS advises avoiding or limiting alcohol, as it can affect how well folic acid works
If someone takes too much
A single extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. If someone has taken much more than prescribed, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital and take the pack with you.
Regulatory status in India
Folic acid is not on the CDSCO list of medicines banned under section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Lower-strength products may be sold as supplements; whether a particular strength needs a prescription must be checked on the pack.
Type of medicine
Folic acid belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Folic acid
These medicines sold in India contain Folic acid. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
What is Folic acid used for?
Medicines that contain Folic acid are used for these conditions.
Other medicines of the same type
These active ingredients are of the same type as Folic acid.
Common questions
What is folic acid used for?
It is used to treat folate deficiency anaemia, to help a baby's brain, skull and spinal cord develop in early pregnancy, and for some people on dialysis or methotrexate. A doctor decides whether and at what strength it is needed.
Why is folic acid advised in pregnancy?
Taking it before conception and for the first 12 weeks may reduce the risk of conditions such as spina bifida. The NHS suggests starting about three months before trying. Some women at higher risk are advised a higher strength, which a doctor must decide.
Can folic acid hide vitamin B12 deficiency?
Yes. Folic acid can improve the blood count while B12 deficiency continues to damage nerves. This is why doctors check the cause of anaemia first and take care with higher strengths.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it when you remember, then carry on as usual. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one.