L-methylfolate

Expert Advice

Dosage forms available

• L-Methylfolate is available for use in the form of oral tablets and capsules, which are swallowed.

• It is also available as sublingual tablets, which are placed under the tongue to dissolve.

• For those who may have difficulty swallowing tablets, L-Methylfolate is available in a liquid form.

• In severe cases of folate deficiency, L-Methylfolate can be administered via an intramuscular injection.

Age and dose restrictions

• L-Methylfolate is suitable for use by both adults and children. The medicine is available for individuals of all ages.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with untreated vitamin B12 deficiency.

• It is also contraindicated for individuals who have an allergy to any of the active or inactive ingredients of L-Methylfolate.

Other medications to avoid

• This medicine may interact with anti-convulsants (such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and valproic acid), medications used as immunosuppressant (like methotrexate), and medicines that affect intestinal absorption such as sulfasalazine.

• When considering starting new medications, consulting a doctor is vital to avoid potential interactions.

Overdose and missed dose

• An overdose of L-Methylfolate may lead to symptoms such as nausea, confusion, or a metallic taste in the mouth. If these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical advice immediately.

• If you miss a dose of L-Methylfolate, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at one time to make up for a missed dose.

Management of side effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor immediately.

• If experiencing gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or abdominal cramps while taking L-Methylfolate, consider taking this medicine with food or adjusting the timing of the dose closer to meal times.

• For those experiencing insomnia linked to high doses, adjusting the timing of taking the medication might help. Taking it earlier in the day rather than close to bedtime can be beneficial.

Use in driving and operating machinery

• L-Methylfolate does not generally affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. No specific precautions are usually necessary; however, individual reactions can vary.

Use in pregnancy and lactation

• L-Methylfolate is crucial during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. It should be used during pregnancy under the guidance of a doctor who can determine appropriate dosing. Safety during lactation has not been specifically contraindicated; however, consulting a doctor before use while breastfeeding is advised.

Caution in other conditions

• Individuals with a history of allergies or hypersensitive reactions should exercise caution when taking L-Methylfolate.

• While no specific cautions exist regarding renal or hepatic conditions, it is prudent for individuals with these health issues to consult a doctor before starting L-Methylfolate.

Special dietary and lifestyle recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in natural folates such as dark leafy greens (spinach, kale), asparagus, broccoli, citrus fruits, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, and whole grains to support overall health while managing conditions that require L-Methylfolate.

• Limit intake of alcohol as it can interfere with folate absorption.

• Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise like walking or swimming which supports overall heart health especially important in managing homocysteinaemia.

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation which can be beneficial, especially for those using L-Methylfolate for mood regulation related to conditions like depression.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions