GENERIC NAME:FOLIC ACID - ORAL FOH-lick acid
BRAND NAME FA-8
Drug class
Folic acid
Vitamin supplement
Therapeutic actions
Required for nucleoprotein synthesis and maintenence of normal erythropoiesis
Indications
Treatment of megoblastic anemias due to sprue, nutritional deficiency, pregnancy, infancy, and childhood
Contraindications and cautions
Contraindicated with allergy to folic acid preparations; pernicious, aplastic, normocytic anemias
Use cautiously during lactation
Available forms
Tablets—0.4, 0.8, 1 mg; injection—5 mg/mL
Adverse effects
Hypersensitivity: Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing
Local: Pain and discomfort at injection site
Interactions
Decrease in serum phenytoin and increase in seizure activity with folic acid preparations
Decreased absorption with sulfasalazine, aminosalicyclic acid
Nursing considerations
Administer orally if at all possible. With severe GI malabsorption or very severe disease, give IM, IV, or subcutaneously
Test using Schilling test and serum vitamin B12 levels to rule out pernicious anemia. Therapy may mask signs of pernicious anemia while the neurologic deterioration continues
WARNING: Use caution when giving the parenteral preparations to premature infants. These preparations contain benzyl alcohol and may produce a fatal gasping syndrome in premature infants.
WARNING: Monitor patient for hypersensitivity reactions, especially if drug previously taken. Keep supportive equipment and emergency drugs readily available in case of serious allergic response