Drug Notes

Folic acid (By mouth)

Folic Acid (FOE-lik AS-id)

Treats certain types of anemia (not enough red blood cells). Is also given as a supplement to women who are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant. Folic acid is a B vitamin.

Brand Name(s):

FA-8, Falessa, Folacin-800, Methylfolate, Nature's Blend Folic Acid, Optimum Folic Acid, PharmAssure Folic Acid, Rite Aid Folic Acid

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Keep taking this medicine for as long as your doctor tells you to, even if you feel better.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature. Protect from heat, direct light, and moisture.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Dilantin®.
• If you are taking Questran® or Colestid®, take your folic acid dose 1 hour before or at least 4 hours after the other medicine.
• Your doctor may ask you to eat more foods that contain folic acid. Good sources of folic acid are fruits, green leafy vegetables, liver, kidney, and breads made with dried yeast.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell your doctor. It is very important during this time to take the correct vitamins in the right amounts.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Skin rash, itching, and redness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea, bloating, gas
• Bitter taste in the mouth
• Irritability
• Trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017