What is Elfolate?
Folate is a type of B vitamin that is found naturally in a variety of food items. Folic acid is the human-made form of folate, which can be added to processed food items or mineral and vitamin supplements. Folate is required by the human body to aid in the production of red blood cells. A deficiency in folate within the human body could be caused by a variety of illnesses as well as by taking certain medicines or simply not having enough folate in your diet. Folate deficiency can result in elevated levels of an amino acid known as hyperhomocysteinemia (pronounced HEE-per-HOE-moe-sis-tin-EE-mee-a). Elfolate is a medicine that is used for those suffering from ailments caused by folate deficiency. It is also prescribed for people suffering from major depression with folate deficiencies or for people suffering from schizophrenia with hyperhomocysteinemia due to folate deficiency.Elfolate isn't an antidepressant or antipsychotic medication. However, this medication can increase the effectiveness of antidepressant drugs.Elfolate is also used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline for medication.
Side effects of Elfolate
Seek medical attention immediately in the event that you exhibit symptoms that indicate an allergy, such as asthma, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.Some less serious side effects could be observed, and you might be able to avoid any side effects at all. This isn't a complete list of adverse effects. Other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical adverse effects. Contact the FDA with any adverse reactions by dialing their hotline: 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar or related drugs
Folic acid, Deplin, l-methylfolate, Denovo, and Folacin-800
Warnings
Follow the instructions on the label of your medication and on the label of your package. Be sure to inform your health care providers about your allergies, medical conditions, and all medications you take.
Before you take this drug
It is not recommended to take elfolate if you have an allergy to it.
To ensure that elfolate is not harmful to you, consult your physician. If you have:
- Seizures or epilepsy;
- An underlying background of a history of vitamin b12 deficiencies as well as the pernicious form of anemia
- A background that suggests bipolar disorder (manic depression)
Speak to your physician if you are breastfeeding or pregnant. Your dosage requirements might differ in the course of pregnancy or when you are breastfeeding.
How to take Elfolate?
Follow all the instructions on the prescription label. Don't take Elfolate in smaller or larger amounts or for a longer period than is recommended.Make sure you use only the strength of the l-methylfolate your doctor has prescribed. Don't change brands without a doctor's recommendation.Elfolate can be taken in combination with or without food. Follow the directions of your doctor.Don't crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Suck it up whole.Don't give this medication to another person, even if they suffer from similar symptoms to yours.Elfolate is just one component of a comprehensive treatment plan that could also comprise other medications and psychological counseling for people suffering from depression and schizophrenia. Be sure to follow your treatment and counseling regimen extremely closely.Store at a cool temperature, free of heat, moisture, and light.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take the dose you missed as quickly as you can remember. Do not take any missed doses if you are nearing the time for the next dose.Do not attempt to compensate for missed doses by taking additional medicine.
What happens if I overdose?
A high dose of elfolate is unlikely to cause life-threatening effects.
What should be avoided?
Follow the doctor's advice regarding any limitations on foods, drinks, or activities.
Interaction with other drug
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking and any new medications you begin or stop taking, particularly:
- Capecitabine;
- Fluoxetine (prozac);
- Isotretinoin;
- Methotrexate;
- Methylprednisolone;
- Pancrelipase;
- Pyrimethamine;
- Triamterene;
- Trimethoprim;
- Warfarin (coumadin, jantoven);
- Birth control pills;
- Oral diabetes medicine containing metformin (glucophage, avandamet, metaglip, and many others);
the nsaids (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): aspirin, ibuprofen, aspirin (advil, motrin), naproxen (aleve), as well as celecoxib, diclofenac (also known as indomethacin), diclofe, and others; - Seizure medicine: carbamazepine, lamotrigine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, and valproic acid.
This list isn't complete. Other drugs can interfere with l-methylfolate, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. The interactions of all potential drugs are included in this guideline for medication.
