Folinic Acid

Drug #324

Folinic Acid is the 5-formyl derivative of tetrahydrofolic acid. It can act as a co-enzyme carrier in certain folate mediated reactions. Folinic Acid is used as an antidote of antifolate cytotoxic agents and to treat megaloblastic anemia.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to water soluble vitamin.

It is classified in Antidotes pharmacological group. It is also classified under Hematological Agents .

Molecular Weight: 473.4 · pK_a: 3.1, 4.8, 10.4 · Solubility in Water: > 1in 2 · Solubility in Alcohol: > 1in 1 · Non-proprietary name: Folinic Acid.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Folinic Acid has an oral bioavailability is 45% (±45%).

Distribution: Folinic Acid has a volume of distribution is 14±2 litre. plasma protein binding is 73±3%.

Elimination: plasma half-life is 45±5 min, renal excretion is 80-90%.

Indications

Folinic Acid is primarily indicated in conditions like 5-fu therapy, As an antidote to methotrexate, Folate deficiency, Gastric acid reduction (surgical procedures), Methotrexate therapy, Prophylaxis of acid aspiration in obstetric patients, Suspected methotrexate overdosage.

Contraindications

Folinic Acid is contraindicated in conditions like Pernicious anaemia, Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Dosage

Folinic Acid's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
120 mg	120 mg	—	IV,IM	In div.doses over 12-24 hrs.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
No data.
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown2 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Folinic Acid in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Nausea , Alopecia , Severe diarrhea, Neurological complications , Skin rashes , Vomiting .

Folinic Acid produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Myelosuppression , Diarrhea, Allergic sensitization, Fatal anaphylaxis, Mucositis, Bloody rhinorrhea. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

Folinic Acid is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Pyrexia .

Warnings / Precautions

Caution is advised in patients who may have folate dependant tumor. Folinic acid should not be given alone or in conjunction with inadequate amount of vitamin B12 for the treatment of undiagnosed megaloblastic anaemia. Leucovorin should not be used in case of pernicious anemia secondary to vitamin B12 deficiency because the drug alleviates the hematological effects of B12 deficiency while allowing the neurological complications to continue. The drug can only be used during pregnancy when the potential risk to the fetus over- weigh against the potential benefits to the mother.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Inj

15 mg 25 mg 50 mg

Tabs

15 mg

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Syrup

0.25 mg/5ml

Tabs

0.75 mg 300 mcg

Tabs Chewable

0.35 mg

Storage Conditions

Folinic Acid should be stored Tab, Inj.

Drug Classification

1.4.2.11 — Miscellaneous

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Folinic Acid in Pakistan:

Abbott Al-Habib Alina Atco Neo Pharmevo Polyfine PPP Tread Turner