Folic Acid Injection

What is this medication?

FOLIC ACID (FOE lik AS id) prevents and treats low levels of folate (vitamin B9) in your body. Folate plays an important role in forming red blood cells and maintaining brain health. Folate also supports a healthy pregnancy and lowers the risk of birth defects of the brain and spine.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Kidney disease
• Pernicious anemia
• Vitamin B12 deficient anemia
• An unusual or allergic reaction to folic acid, other B vitamins, benzyl alcohol, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for injection into a vein, into a muscle, or under the skin. It is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medication. Use exactly as directed. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Chloramphenicol
• Cholestyramine
• Medications for seizures
• Methotrexate
• Nitrofurantoin
• Pyrimethamine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular check-ups. Your care team may order blood tests.

You need to eat a proper diet even while you are taking this vitamin. Taking vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Ask your care team for good nutrition advice.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Breathing problems
• Pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• General discomfort and fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

If you are using this medication at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medication. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date on the label.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.