Drug Identity
Active Ingredient
Folic Acid
Drug Class
Antianemic, Folic Acid
Chemical Class
Glutamic Acid
Pharmacological Group
on the basis of mechanism of action and also cl...
ATC Code
B03BB01, V04CX02
Status
Essential Medicine
What is Folic Acid?
Uses
Folic acid is a vitamin B9 supplement used to prevent serious birth defects in pregnant women or women who think they may be pregnant, re...
How It Works
Chemical Class
Glutamic Acid
Pharmacological Group
on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Hematological Agents pharmacological group
Folic Acid also known as Folacin or Vitamin B9. It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Glutamic Acid. It belongs to Nutrients and Vitamins pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Hematological Agents pharmacological group. The Molecular Weight of Folic Acid is 441.40. Its pKa is 4.7, 6.8, 9.
How to Take It
1
Adult · IV
3 mg — 24 hourly
For 6 weeks.
2
Adult · IV
200 mcg — 24 hourly
For prophylaxis in pregnancy.
3
Adult · PO
5 mg — 24 hourly
For 4 months, in folate deficient megaloblastic anemia b/c of poor nutrition, pregnancy, or antiepileptics. Maintenance dose is 5mg every 1-7 days depending on underlying disease.
4
Adult · PO,IV,IM
0.25 to 1 mg — 24 hourly
Initial dose, in folate deficient states.
5
Adult · PO,IV,IM
0.4 mg — 24 hourly
Maintenance dose, in folate deficient states.
6
Child · Oral
0.5 mg/kg — 24 hourly
Safety Alerts
Megaloblastic anaemia due to Vit B
Important Warnings
Should never be given alone for pernicious anaemia (may precipitate subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord)
Side Effects
Rarely Gastro-intestinal disturbances
Drug Interactions
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using folic acid with any other medications
especially: methotrexate nitrofurantoin pyrimethamine tetracycline . False low serum and red cell folate levels may occur with some antibiotics that suppress the growth of Lactobacillus casei . a barbiturate such as phenobarbital or secobarbital seizure medicines such as phenytoin or primidone . The anticonvulsant action of some seizure medications can be antagonized by folic acid and increased dosages of the anticonvulsant may be needed sulfasalazine. May reduce the body's ability to absorb folate. This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with folic acid
including prescription and over-the-counter medicines
vitamins
and herbal products . Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Storage
Inj Store at room temperature. Do not Freeze. Tab Store in a well closed container, Below 40°C. Protect from Sunlight and Heat.
Price Intelligence
Rs 106
DVAGO observed price · as of 30 July 2026
Prices across sources
DVAGORs 106
DRAPper pack of 100Rs 61.04
ServaidRs 58
Should you consider an alternative?
Other options containing Folic Acid, and what they are not.
Identical active ingredient at the same strength. Cheapest per unit first.
Ordered by lowest price per unit where a pack size is known, then by price. Order is never affected by sponsorship. Not medical advice — confirm any change with your pharmacist or doctor.
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