Product Overview: FOLIVIA 5 MG

FOLIVIA 5 MG is a high-dose folic acid tablet manufactured by Ajantha. Containing 5mg of Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), this medication is indicated for the treatment of folate deficiency anemia and the prevention of neural tube defects in the developing fetus during pregnancy. It is crucial for cellular division and the maturation of red blood cells.

Primary Indications

• Treatment of megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency.
• Prophylaxis in women planning a pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects (spina bifida).
• Supportive supplement during chronic hemolytic anemia and renal dialysis.

Clinical Benefits

• Fetal Protection: Prevents brain and spinal cord birth defects in early pregnancy.
• Red Blood Cell Production: Stimulates correct nucleoprotein synthesis for red blood cell maturation.
• High Tolerability: Naturally occurring vitamin supplement with a very high safety margin.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects are extremely rare, but high doses may occasionally cause:

• Mild nausea, flatulence, or abdominal bloating.
• Sleep disturbances or mild irritability.
• Allergic skin rash (very rare).

How to Take FOLIVIA 5 MG

• Take one tablet daily, with or without food, or as prescribed by your doctor.
• For pregnancy, start taking the supplement at least 1 month before conception and continue through the first trimester.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.

Mechanism of Action

FOLIVIA 5 MG contains Folic Acid, which is metabolically converted to tetrahydrofolate. Tetrahydrofolate serves as a coenzyme in single-carbon transfer reactions involved in the synthesis of purines, pyrimidines, and methionine. These reactions are essential for DNA synthesis and the normal maturation of red blood cells.

Safety Warnings

• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Folic acid can mask the symptoms of pernicious anemia (Vitamin B12 deficiency), potentially leading to progressive neurological damage. Ensure B12 status is checked.
• Pregnancy & Nursing: Safe and highly recommended. Use as directed by your healthcare provider.

Patient Advice

• Ensure you do not skip doses, especially during the preconception period.
• Store the tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Include folate-rich foods like spinach, beans, and citrus fruits in your diet.

Fact Box

Drug Interactions

• Antiepileptic Drugs (Phenytoin): High doses of folic acid may decrease phenytoin levels and increase seizure frequency.
• Sulfasalazine: May reduce the absorption of folic acid.
• Methotrexate: Folic acid acts as an antagonist and may reduce methotrexate's therapeutic effect.

User Feedback

• Expectant mothers report high satisfaction with the small, easy-to-swallow tablets.
• Widely prescribed by gynecologists as a baseline preconception multivitamin component.