Get a Prescription for Folic Acid Online
Folic acid is a dietary supplement used to treat folate deficiencies and high blood homocysteine levels. Pregnant women also take it to prevent birth defects.
Getting a folic acid prescription is very straightforward; you can connect with a doctor at Your Doctors Online from anywhere at any time. However, it will only be provided after consultation with the doctor and if the treatment is safe and suitable for you.
What is Folic Acid?
Folic Acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a diet supplement used to treat folic acid deficiency (low folic acid levels in the blood) and promote healthy development in children. Folic acid is considered a synthetic form of folate, a chemical naturally found in food. It is available as an oral tablet and injectable solution.
What is Folic Acid used for?
Folic acid is used to treat types of anemia, folate deficiency, and high homocysteine levels in the blood (hyperhomocysteinemia). It is also used by pregnant women to prevent serious birth defects such as spina bifida and helps develop the baby’s brain, skull, and spinal cord. Folic acid helps manage the side effects of arthritis, Crohn’s disease, or psoriasis medication such as methotrexate.
How does it work?
Folic acid works in a way that it serves as a coenzyme in synthesizing DNA and RNA. It is crucial for producing purines and pyrimidines, the building blocks of DNA. Additionally, it plays a role in methylation reactions, which are vital for normal cell function. It is also essential for the formation of healthy red blood cells.
What are the different dosage forms and strengths of Folic Acid?
This medication comes in various dosage forms, including tablets (400 mcg, 800 mcg, 1 mg) and injectable suspension (5mg/ml). Folic acid is mainly prescribed orally at a starting dose of 200mg, depending on the severity of the medical condition.
How long does Folic Acid take to work?
Folic acid starts to work within 1 hour of administration. It appears in the blood plasma approximately 15-30 minutes after ingestion. However, if you are taking it for folate deficiency and anemia, you will start to feel the effects after a few weeks. It is recommended that you take folic acid as recommended by your doctor.
How to take it?
Folic acid is commonly prescribed in tablet form, but it can also be taken as a syrup or injected intramuscularly, subcutaneously, or through IV. Typically, it is taken once daily, but specific dosing instructions should be followed as directed by a healthcare provider. Folic acid tablets can be taken with or without food, and you can swallow them with water. Folic acid solution can be measured and taken directly or mixed with water or juice.
Side effects of Folic Acid
Common side effects of folic acid are
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
Severe side effects that require immediate medical attention include
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
- Skin rash
- Swelling of the lips and tongue
- Numbness or tingling
- Abdominal pain
- Gasping syndrome in premature babies
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Dr. Nicole, I have low folate levels in my body; It gets better after taking Folic acid. Can you give me a Folic acid refill?
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Prescription
- Folic acid 400 mcg tablet, take one tablet once daily.
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Precautions and contraindications
- Share your medication history with your healthcare provider to avoid allergic reactions, harmful drug interactions, and other unwanted side effects. Do not take this medication if you have any previous history of allergic responses to folic acid and other medications.
- This medication is safe to take during pregnancy and will not harm the developing baby or the mother. Despite its benefits in pregnancy, it is important to discuss before taking any medications with your doctor.
- If you have cancer, heart problems, liver issues, seizure disorders, or are taking chemotherapy drugs or other medication, then you should consult with a doctor before taking folic acid. It can have some adverse interactions or interfere with the effectiveness of folic acid.
FAQs About Folic Acid
Is folate the same as folic acid?
Folate and folic acid are related, but they differ structurally and chemically. Folate refers to all forms of vitamin B9 and is naturally found in foods. Folic acid is a man-made (synthetic) type of B9 used as a dietary supplement. Folate is better absorbed by the body, but folic acid is effectively used for treating deficiencies.
Can you buy folic acid over the counter?
Folic acid can be obtained over-the-counter (OTC) in low-dose tablets. However, a Folic acid prescription is required for treating anemia, folate deficiencies and during pregnancy to avoid birth defects. It is recommended not to start taking supplements without consulting your doctor.
How much folic acid should I take?
The recommended daily dose of folic acid for most adults is 400 micrograms (mcg). However, during pregnancy, the dose typically increases to 600-800 mcg per day. Consult your doctor to determine the specific folic acid dose that suits your individual needs and circumstances.
Should I take folic acid in the morning or at night?
Folic acid can be taken at any time of the day. If you are taking it every day, take it around the same time daily. However, it is generally advised to take it with a meal to enhance absorption and minimize the potential for stomach discomfort.
Does folic acid help with hair loss?
Folic acid is important for hair health as it aids in the production of keratin, a protein that makes up the hair structure. Folic acid deficiency can lead to hair thinning and hair loss. However, note that it isn’t a targeted treatment for hair loss.
What foods should you avoid when taking folic acid?
You can eat and drink normally when taking folic acid. However, excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with its absorption. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your diet and folic acid supplementation.
What is a good substitute for folic acid?
Good substitutes for folic acid are levomefolate (5-MTHF), Deplin, L-methylfolate, and food rich in folate. Commonly found foods with folate include citrus fruits, beans, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and fortified cereals.
How long after taking folic acid will I get pregnant?
Taking folic acid does not directly impact the time it takes to become pregnant. Folic acid is recommended for its role in preventing birth defects, particularly neural tube defects, in the developing fetus during early pregnancy. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist to assess your specific condition.
How long after taking folic acid will I get pregnant?
Taking folic acid does not directly impact the time it takes to become pregnant. Folic acid is recommended for its role in preventing birth defects, particularly neural tube defects, in the developing fetus during early pregnancy. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist to assess your specific condition.
What does folic acid do for men?
Folic acid is essential for overall health in men. It supports sperm production, contributes to cardiovascular health by reducing homocysteine levels, plays a role in mental well-being, and supports various cellular processes.
Can you take too much folic acid?
Taking too much folic acid can lead to health issues, such as hiding the signs of vitamin B12 deficiencies that lead to nerve damage. It can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms that potentially interfere with certain medical tests. It's important to follow recommended dosage guidelines and consult a healthcare provider before taking high-dose folic acid supplements.
Can I take folate and folic acid together?
Folate and folic acid can safely taken together. However, their dosages should be monitored. Taking too much or too little folic acid can lead to deficiencies and mask symptoms of other diseases. Talk to a healthcare provider if you are worried about your folic acid intake.
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