Folic acid is a very important element that takes an active part in the metabolism, DNA synthesis, and is responsible for the formation of blood cells. This vitamin is essential for the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and immune system.
Folic acid can be purchased at any pharmacy. However, few people know that this vitamin is often sold under such a name as “Folacin”. Instructions for use, cost and reviews about this tool are described below.
Composition, form
The drug "Folacin", the price of which is indicated below, is made in the form of tablets. They contain folic acid, as well as auxiliary ingredients such as povidone, microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate and crospovidone.
Drug action
How are folacin treated? Reviews on the effectiveness of treatment with this drug, as well as the method of its use will be presented below.
According to experts, this medication belongs to the B vitamins. After ingestion, it is converted to tetrahydrofolic acid and takes part in the most important metabolic processes.
The active substance of this medication is necessary for the full maturation of megaloblasts and the formation of normoblasts. The lack of folic acid contributes to the development of megaloblastic type of hematopoiesis.
When carrying a child, this substance is especially important. It protects the fetus from damaging and teratogenic factors. In addition, this element contributes to the normal activity of the placenta and its maturation.
Kinetic properties
Treatment with "Folacinum", reviews of which are more positive, are all pregnant women. After the drug enters, its absorption occurs in the digestive tract. The resulting tetrahydrofolic acid penetrates the placenta and the BBB, and also passes into breast milk.
The highest concentration of folic acid in the blood is observed after 30-70 minutes. Withdrawal of the medication occurs through the kidneys after 5 hours.
Indications
What is the purpose of Folacin treatment? Reviews claim that the indications for taking this remedy are:
- prevention and treatment of various types of anemia that arose due to a deficiency of folic acid in the body (including the development of complications of any disease, pregnancy, lactation, etc.);
- prevention and treatment of folic acid deficiency, which was caused by malnutrition or unbalanced nutrition.
Why else prescribe treatment "Folacinum"? Reviews of experts report that this tool is often recommended for pregnant women in order to prevent neural tube pathologies in the developing fetus.
Bans on admission
The drug "Folacin", the price of which is not very high, can not be used for:
- intolerance to the ingredients of the drug;
- malignant neoplasms;
- pernicious anemia ;
- cobalamin deficiency.
All this must be taken into account.
The drug "Folacin": instructions for use
The medication in question is intended for oral administration. The instructions attached to the vitamin states that doctors can prescribe completely different dosages for the prevention and treatment of folic acid deficiency.
For example, in the treatment of megaloblastic anemia, the patient is recommended to take a daily dosage of the drug, which is 5 mg, and for the prevention of this condition - 2.5 mg.
To prevent the development of a fetal neural tube defect, pregnant women are prescribed a drug in an amount of 2.5 mg. It is advisable to take it for a month before the planned pregnancy. Also, it is advisable to continue taking the medication throughout the entire first trimester of pregnancy.
If necessary, this drug can be prescribed in higher maintenance doses (for example, patients with alcoholism, people taking anticonvulsants, and patients with chronic infectious diseases).
Side effects
Now you know how to take Folacin. In the treatment with this drug, as well as with other folic acid agents, patients may develop allergic reactions in the form of skin rashes, itching, bronchospasm and erythema.
It should also be noted that while taking this medication, patients often experience deviations in the digestive tract (anorexia, nausea, bloating, bitter taste in the mouth and others).
Folacin and folic acid: what is the difference?
This question is asked by so many patients. As you know, the active substance of both drugs is folic acid. As for the auxiliary components, they are different, but this does not affect the effectiveness of the product.
According to experts, the medicines mentioned are synonymous. The difference between them is only in dosages and cost.
Price and reviews
How much do folacin tablets cost? According to patient reviews, the price of this drug is much higher than the price of ordinary folic acid. It is about 120-150 rubles.
Most often, pregnant women and those who plan to conceive leave their comments on this drug. In their opinion, "Folacin" is very convenient to use.
As for specialists, they report that it is a highly effective vitamin preparation, which is often used in clinical practice. Its active substance is a vital element that is necessary for the treatment and prevention of congenital malformations of the fetus and anemic conditions during breastfeeding and pregnancy.