Folinic Acid
Generic Details
Generic Name
Folinic Acid
Other Names
- Calcium Folinate
- Levoleucovorin
Drug Class
- Antidote
- Vitamin
Chemical Formula
C20H23CaN7O7
Molecular Weight
511.51 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Folinic acid is a reduced form of folic acid that helps in the synthesis of purine and thymidylate nucleotides necessary for DNA replication and cell division.
Indications
- Rescue after high-dose methotrexate chemotherapy
- Treatment of folic acid antagonists overdose
- Adjunct in the treatment of megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 5-50 mg orally once daily
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing based on weight and specific indication, always consult a healthcare provider
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosing adjustments based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reactions
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to folinic acid
- Severe renal impairment
Pregnancy Category
- A - Studies in pregnant women have not shown an increased risk of fetal abnormalities
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- May interact with phenytoin, fluorouracil, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
Overdose Symptoms
- Potential for exacerbation of side effects
Antidote for Overdose
- Calcium folinate or leucovorin may be used as an antidote
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed orally
- Distribution: Widely distributed in tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized to active metabolites in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in urine
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of allergic reactions
- Monitor renal function during high-dose therapy
Warnings
- Not a substitute for folic acid in the treatment of anemia without a confirmed deficiency