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FOLIC ACID 5 MG TABLETS - Patient leaflet, side effects, dosage

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Sources: Original (products.mhra.gov.uk)

Patient leaflet - FOLIC ACID 5 MG TABLETS

12. what you need to know before you take folic acid tablets |

Do not take Folic Acid Tablets if you:

  • are allergic (hypersensitive) to Folic acid or any other ingredients in Folic Acid 5 mg Tablets (see section 6 of the leaflet)
  • are suffering from cobalamin deficiency (condition of low blood and tissue levels of vitamin B12) or pernicious anaemia (a form of anaemia caused by lack of vitamin B12) or another condition caused by vitamin B12 deficiency
  • are suffering from malignant (cancerous) disease.

Warnings and precautions

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Folic Acid Tablets if:

  • you are receiving treatment for folate-dependent tumor
  • you suffer from pernicious anaemia (a disorder preventing the absorption of vitamin B12) or could be suffering from a lack of vitamin B12.

Other medicines and Folic Acid Tablets

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription:

In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:

  • Antiepileptics (medicines used to treat epilepsy and fits) such as phenytoin, phenobarbital sodium valproate, carbamazepine or primidone. Your doctor may need to change the amount of antiepileptic medicine you are taking, because Folic Acid Tablets may reduce the effect of these medicines
  • Triamterene, a diuretic used to treat raised blood pressure and oedema
  • Trimethoprim, an antibiotic
  • Aspirin, an analgesic
  • Antibacterials such as chloramphenicol and co-trimoxazole
  • Alcohol may reduce folic acid levels
  • If you need a general anaesthetic make sure your doctor or dentist is aware you are taking Folic acid
  • Sulfasalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug used for the treatment of arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
  • Methotrexate, used to treat certain types of cancer.

Pregnancy and Breast-feeding

This medicine can be taken in pregnancy to treat anaemia. If you are breast-feeding please speak with your doctor before taking this medicine.

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

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Driving and using machines

This medicine should not affect your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.

13. how to take folic acid tablets |

Always take Folic Acid Tablets exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

The recommended doses are as follows:

Adults and children 1 year and over:

To treat Folate deficient megaloblastic anaemia: 5 mg daily for 4 months, which may be increased up to a maximum of 15 mg a day.

To treat drug induced folate deficiency: 5 mg daily.

To prevent folate deficiency caused by long-term red blood cell damage or kidney dialysis: 5 mg every 1–7 days.

Children less than 1 year age:

500 micrograms per kilogram of body weight daily.

Prevention of spina bifida:

One tablet a day, starting before conception and continuing for the first 3 months of pregnancy.

If you take more Folic Acid Tablets than you should:

If you (or anybody else, including a child), takes more Folic Acid Tablets than you should, it is unlikely that this medicine will cause any harm. If you are at all concerned contact your doctor. Take your medicine and this leaflet with you.

If you forget to take your Folic Acid Tablets

If you forget to take a dose, take another as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, then do not take the missed dose at all. Never take the double dose to make up for the one missed.

14. possible side effects |

Like all medicines, Folic Acid Tablets can cause side effects although not everybody gets them. Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following side effects, even if they get worse or you notice any not listed:

Blood and lymphatic system disorder: Folic acid may worsen the symptoms of co-existing vitamin B12 deficiency, without investigation should not be used to treat anaemia.

Rare: (affecting more than 1 in 10,000 but less than 1 in 1,000 people)

  • Allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) e.g. Itchy/red skin, rash, hives, breathlessness
  • Stomach and gut: loss of appetite (anorexia), feeling sick, a bloated feeling, wind.

Not known (cannot be estimated from available data)

  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic reaction) symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, shock.

15. how to store folic acid tablets |

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use Folic Acid Tablets after the expiry date which is stated on the box. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Do not store above 25°C. Store in the original container/package. Protect from light.

16. contents of the pack and other information |

The active substance in Folic Acid 5 mg Tablets is folic acid. Folic Acid 5 mg Tablets also contains calcium hydrogen phosphate, starch, sodium lauryl sulphate, magnesium stearate.

What Folic Acid 5 mg Tablets looks like and contents of the pack

The tablets are plain yellow biconvex tablets.

Folic Acid 5 mg Tablets are available in blister packs of 28 tablets or securitainers (plastic bottles) containing 50, 100, 250, 1000 or 5000 tablets (not all pack sizes may be marketed).

Relonchem Limited, Cheshire House, Gorsey Lane, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 0RP, UK.

Product Licence Number: PL 20395/0133

This leaflet was last revised in July 2021.

160 mm

160 mm


Sources: Original (products.mhra.gov.uk)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Folic Acid 5 mg used for?

Folic Acid 5 mg is primarily used to prevent and treat folate deficiency, which is essential for producing healthy red blood cells. It is also important during pregnancy to support fetal development.

Can I take Folic Acid 5 mg if I'm not pregnant?

Yes, anyone can take Folic Acid 5 mg if they have a folate deficiency or if they are advised by a healthcare professional to take it for other health reasons.

How does Folic Acid benefit my health?

Folic Acid helps in the formation of DNA and RNA, promotes cell division, and supports overall cell health. It is crucial for brain function and may help reduce the risk of certain birth defects.

What are possible side effects of Folic Acid 5 mg?

Folic Acid is generally well-tolerated. Some may experience mild side effects like nausea, bloating, or an upset stomach.

Can I take Folic Acid 5 mg with other medications?

It's important to talk to your doctor before combining Folic Acid with any other medications, particularly anti-seizure drugs or certain antibiotics.

How should I take Folic Acid 5 mg tablets?

Folic Acid 5 mg tablets are usually taken once daily. You can take them with or without food but try to take them at the same time each day for consistency.

Is it safe to take Folic Acid long-term?

For most people, taking Folic Acid long-term is safe if taken as recommended by a healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Folic Acid 5 mg?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses at once.

Can Folic Acid improve my energy levels?

While Folic Acid itself does not directly boost energy levels, correcting folate deficiency may help alleviate fatigue caused by anemia.

Will taking Folic Acid prevent anemia?

Folic Acid can help prevent certain types of anemia related to folate deficiency by promoting the production of healthy red blood cells.

Is it important for men to take Folic Acid too?

Yes, men can benefit from adequate folate intake as it plays a role in overall health and may contribute to reproductive health.

What foods contain natural sources of Folic Acid?

Natural sources of Folate include leafy greens (like spinach), legumes (such as lentils), nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals.

Can I overdose on Folic Acid 5 mg?

While rare, taking excessive amounts of Folic Acid can lead to adverse effects. Stick to the recommended dosage unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

Does alcohol affect my ability to absorb Folic Acid?

Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with the absorption of Folate in your body, leading to deficiencies.

Are there any special considerations while taking Folic Acid during pregnancy?

Pregnant women are often advised to take higher doses of Folic Acid to prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Can children take Folic Acid supplements?

Children may need Folate supplements depending on their dietary intake and individual health needs. Consult a pediatrician before giving supplements.

How does my body absorb Folic Acid?

Folate is absorbed through the intestines after ingestion and is then utilized in various bodily functions including DNA synthesis and repair.

What should I discuss with my doctor before starting Folic Acid?

Discuss any existing medical conditions, current medications, allergies, and whether you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting Folic Acid.

Is there a difference between Folate and Folic Acid?

Yes! Folate refers to the natural form found in food while Folic Acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods.

Where can I purchase Folic Acid 5 mg tablets?

Folic Acid 5 mg tablets can typically be purchased at pharmacies, grocery stores with pharmacy sections, or online retailers. Always buy from reputable sources.