What is Leucovorin?
Leucovorin is a form of folic acid. Folic acid is essential for the body to produce new cells and maintain them. It also prevents DNA changes that could lead to cancer. Many foods, such as oranges, dried beans, spinach, peas, and other vegetables, contain folic acid.Leucovorin can be used to reduce side effects from large doses of medication or accidental overdoses of medications that reduce folic acid's effects in the body. This includes methotrexate, pyrimethamine (Daraprim), trimethoprim, and other medications.Leucovorin can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Leucovorin
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor.Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Azthromycin, clindamycin, Bactrim, sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, folic acid, Zithromax, and Clarithromycin
Warnings
Leucovorin should not be taken if you suffer from pernicious anaemia or any other type of anaemia that is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12.
Before you take this drug
Leucovorin should not be taken if you suffer from pernicious or any other type of anemia that is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12.
Tell your doctor, if possible, before receiving leucovorin if you:
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Breathing problems
- If you are dehydrated.
Tell your doctor all the medications you are currently taking. Many other drugs can interfere with methotrexate, slowing down the body's ability to eliminate it. Even with leucovorin, this can slow down the rate at which methotrexate leaves your body.Leucovorin is not known to harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor immediately if you are expecting, planning, or hoping to become pregnant.Leucovorin is not known to pass into breast milk or to harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding a child.
How to take leucovorin?
Do not increase or decrease the dosage, nor take this medicine more frequently or for a period longer than prescribed. Take this medication only as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or take it for longer.Leucovorin is the best treatment for an accidental overdose. Precaution should be taken as soon as possible when administering this medicine.Leucovorin can be given in combination with other drugs to help your kidneys eliminate methotrexate. You may be given iv fluids as well to prevent you from becoming dehydrated.Your doctor will want to know how long you should be treated with leucovorin by conducting regular medical tests.Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.
What happens if i miss the dose?
As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if i overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
A leucovorin overdose is unlikely to cause any life-threatening symptoms. Leucovorin can cause other medications to be less effective.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor if you are taking any new medications or if you will stop taking any of your current ones.
- Fluorouracil;
- Sulfamethoxazole (bactrim; cotrim; smz or smx) and trimethoprim
- Seizure medicine: phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone.
This list is incomplete. Leucovorin may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions.
