Folic Acid
Information about Folic Acid
Folic acid uses
Folic Acid is used in the treatment of anemia due to folic acid deficiency.
How folic acid works
Folic Acid is a form of vitamin B. It plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It is also essential in pregnancy due to its role in the development of the unborn baby's brain and spinal cord.
Common side effects of folic acid
No common side effects seen
Available Medicine for Folic Acid
Expert advice for Folic Acid
- Folic Acid is used for the treatment of folic acid deficiency.
- It is also taken before and during pregnancy to decrease the risk of defects in the neural tube, which forms the spinal cord in the baby.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures as you may need a higher dose of the seizure medicines than what you normally take.
Frequently asked questions for Folic Acid
Folic Acid
Q. Is it ok to take Folic Acid when not pregnant?
Usually, folic acid requirements are met from the diet and therefore additional supplements are not required. In general, Folic Acid is recommended only when you have a deficiency of folic acid. However, Folic Acid is advised to women who are pregnant and who want to conceive. The medicine should be taken at least 4 weeks before pregnancy and should continue its use up to 3 months of pregnancy. Consult your doctor if not sure.
Q. Can Folic Acid cause weight gain?
Animal studies on Folic Acid suggest that taking the medicine in excess along with a high-fat diet may lead to weight gain and fat accumulation. But this weight gain was not evident when taken along with a normal or low-fat diet, even with excess Folic Acid. In humans, similar studies have not been conducted and therefore knowledge regarding weight gain is lacking. Therefore, if you are on Folic Acid eat a low-fat meal to be on the safer side.
Q. How long does Folic Acid take to work?
Folic Acid usually starts working within a few hours of taking it. If you are taking it for iron deficiency anemia, you may start feeling better after a few weeks of taking it. In case you are taking it during pregnancy, you may not notice any difference but this does not mean that the dose is not working. Continue taking Folic Acid for the duration recommended by your doctor.