Leucovorin (Calcium Folinate)

Indications

Leucovorin is an oral medication used to treat a variety of conditions, including cancer, anemia, and folic acid deficiency. Leucovorin contains the active ingredient calcium folinate hydrate. Calcium folinate belongs to a group of medicines known as folic acid antagonists. Folinic acid is a natural form of vitamin B9 and an important nutrient for proper cell functioning and metabolism within the body. It works by helping the body absorb and make use of folic acid that it takes in through diet or supplements.

Leucovorin Calcium can be used alone or in combination with other treatments to help reduce the side effects caused by certain medications. It plays an essential role in maintaining the health and well-being of individuals with certain diseases or who are undergoing chemotherapy treatments.

Uses and Dosage

Leucovorin comes in the form of a tablet and is typically taken by mouth as a tablet, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dosage on your own, as this can lead to unwanted side effects or reduced effectiveness of the medication.

The specific dosage and usage instructions for Leucovorin tablets depend on the patient's individual needs and medical history, as well as the condition being treated. Follow the instructions of a qualified healthcare professional when using this medication. They will be able to provide detailed instructions on how to use it properly.

The dosage and frequency of the medication will depend on the condition being treated and the patient's response to treatment. Doses above 25 milligrams are not recommended. Use the Leucovorin tablet regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Leucovorin

• Facial flushing
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects of Calcium Folinate:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe dizziness

Form and Strength

Leucovorin (Calcium Folinate) is available in the following forms and strengths:

Leucovorin: Tablet

• 5 mg

Caution

• If you are planning to take Leucovorin, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to the medication, levoleucovorin, folic acid, or folinic acid, or if you have any other allergies. To obtain more details about the medication, you can consult your pharmacist.
• Elderly patients receiving weekly leucovorin and fluorouracil may experience severe enterocolitis, diarrhea, and dehydration, which may be fatal. Some patients also experience concomitant granulocytopenia and fever. Additionally, the use of Leucovorin may enhance the toxicity of fluorouracil.
• If you are planning to use Leucovorin, inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have certain types of anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. This is because Leucovorin may have interactions or effects specific to these conditions.
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and you have been prescribed Leucovorin, discuss the potential risks and benefits of its use with your doctor.
• Leucovorin should be given as soon as possible in the treatment of accidental overdosage of folic acid antagonists, such as methotrexate (MTX). The effectiveness of leucovorin in counteracting hematologic toxicity decreases as the time interval between antifolate administration and leucovorin rescue increases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is Leucovorin administered?

Leucovorin can be administered as an injection, either intravenously or intramuscularly, or as an oral tablet.

Can Leucovorin be taken with other medications?

It can interact with certain medications, and inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.

How should Leucovorin be stored?

It should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Is Leucovorin safe for use during pregnancy?

Leucovorin is classified as a pregnancy category C drug, which means that its safety during pregnancy has not been established.

How often is Leucovorin administered?

The frequency of Leucovorin administration will depend on the specific treatment regimen being used.

Resources

• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=33663425-4731-4977-9127-9e59b6b91497&type=display
• https://reference.medscape.com/drug/leucovorin-343736
• https://www.medicinenet.com/leucovorin-oral/article.htm
• https://www.rxlist.com/leucovorin-drug.htm#indications
• https://www.drugs.com/pro/leucovorin-tablets.html