​Pharmacology - Folic Acid

​Pharmacology - Folic Acid 
Folic acid is necessary for the production of DNA as well as the proliferation of cells. When it is in its tetrahydrofolate (FH4) form, it functions as a cofactor in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, with thymidylate production being one of its most consequential applications.


When it is taken orally, it is absorbed by active transport into the mucosal cells of the digestive tract, where it is first reduced to FH4 and then methylated to methyl-FH4, following which it is transported into the plasma and then into the cells. A process that is dependent on vitamin B12 is responsible for the demethylation of the functionally inactive methyl-FH4.

Use in Clinical Settings 
It is used to treat megaloblastic anemias that are brought on by a lack of folate. For the purpose of preventing folate deficiency in persons who are vulnerable to developing it (for example, pregnant women, premature infants, and patients with severe chronic hemolytic anemias). Methotrexate, which is a folate antagonist, is used to treat toxicity produced by the drug.

Adverse Reactions 
There are sporadic instances of GIT disruptions.

Should not be utilized in cases of undiagnosed megaloblastic anemias since, in the event that the anemia is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12, the anemia may resolve; however, the neurological lesions will continue to exist and may even become more severe.