Can you take folic acid all the time? How to take folic acid supplements? Daily Value for Men

Unfortunately, for the vast majority of people, such a substance as folic acid is associated with pregnancy. It is remembered mainly by women and only when they have already entered this crucial period of their lives.

This approach absolutely eliminates the huge potential of folic acid in shaping the health of the unborn child. Although it would be worth turning Special attention on the feasibility and method of its application, which will help to significantly improve the quality of the health of future generations.

What is folic acid?

Yet in 1926 it became known that eating dishes from the liver contributes to the treatment of megaloblastic anemia in pregnant women. BUT in 1941 managed to identify the substance that caused this effect.

Due to the fact that this substance was discovered and isolated from spinach leaves, it received the name folic acid(from the Latin word folium - leaf).

This name has become the most used, despite the fact that folic acid is also vitamin B9, pteroylglutamic acid, folamine and a number of other equally complex terms.

Folic acid belongs to the B group of vitamins. It takes part in amino acid metabolism responsible for protein synthesis in the body without it, the formation of DNA and RNA is disrupted, mucous membrane of the digestive system, bone marrow function is inhibited(the hematopoietic system of the body).

These are just the fastest processes in the body, which also include the development of the embryo. The spectrum of functions of folic acid is extremely diverse and constantly expanding.

Hypovitaminosis is most dangerous and common among young children and women in anticipation of a baby.

There are many factors that cause insufficient intake, malabsorption or increased intake of folic acid. They are relevant not only for these groups of people. These include:

taking certain medications (anticonvulsants, contraceptives, methotrexate, sulfonamides);
malnutrition, in which there are few foods containing folic acid;
diseases of the digestive system (in particular, the small intestine), infectious and oncological diseases;
regular abuse of alcohol, strong tea;
increased need for folic acid during pregnancy and lactation.

Vitamin B9 deficiency dangerous for a number of pathological conditions.

Pregnant women have an increased risk of toxicosis, depression, miscarriage, placental abruption, stillbirth, serious congenital malformations of the fetus, often incompatible with life (impaired development of the central nervous system of the fetus, namely the brain and spinal cord) or provoking mental retardation and disability of the child .

Older children and adults develop macrocytic anemia, neuritis, memory impairment, underweight, impaired physiological processes in bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, skin. In addition, the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis and related diseases (angina pectoris, heart attack, stroke, heart failure), and thromboembolism increases.

It is quite difficult to achieve an excess amount of folic acid in the body. Even repeated excess of the daily dose passes without any consequences.

As with any other vitamin, allergic reactions are possible.

With prolonged use of high doses of the drug, a decrease in the level of cyanocobalamin is possible, followed by the development of anemia, indigestion, increased excitability of the nervous system, which in the worst case manifests itself in the form of a convulsive syndrome.

Instructions for use

Indications for use

Folic acid is indicated for presumed and apparent deficiency of the vitamin, which is possible in case of malnutrition, alcohol addiction, removal of the stomach and various diseases of the digestive system (including the liver), long-term hemodialysis.

Especially indicated is the intake of folic acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the use of drugs (some anticonvulsants, painkillers, sulfanilamide, as well as contraceptives, methotrexate, erythropoietin).

Folic acid deficiency is manifested by anemia (both folate-dependent and other origin), glossitis.

Contraindications for use

There are much fewer contraindications, and these include hypersensitivity to the vitamin and anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency, since it masks its neurological manifestations.

Side effects are also few: erythema, rashes and itching of the skin, general weakness, fever, bronchospasm.

Dosage and duration of taking the drug during pregnancy

Pregnant women who have not previously experienced pregnancy complications associated with folic acid deficiency are recommended 400 micrograms of vitamin per day.

In the case of a burdened history in terms of folate-dependent fetal malformations, the dose is increased up to 800 - 4000 mcg per day (0.8 - 4 mg). The same doses are prescribed when taking folic acid antagonist drugs.

Take during breastfeeding 300 micrograms of vitamin per day.

Since the central nervous system of the fetus is formed in the period up to 16 - 28 days after conception, folic acid should be taken even at the planning stage of conception (at least 3 months before it) and continue to be taken throughout pregnancy and lactation. This reduces the risk of developing neural tube defects by 70%.

Features of the use of the drug and analogues of folic acid

Multivitamin preparations contain a sufficient amount (0.8 mg) of vitamin B9, so there is no need for parallel use of a monopreparation.

500 - 600 micrograms of vitamin enters the body with food, but 50 - 90% is destroyed by the cooking process. Especially a lot of folic acid in fruits and vegetables of rich green color, liver, eggs, legumes, nuts, cereals, dairy products.

Folic acid is also synthesized by the intestinal microflora. After entering the body, it is quickly transported to all tissues, and it can also accumulate in the liver and cerebrospinal fluid. The normal content of the vitamin in blood plasma is 6 - 25 ng / l, in erythrocytes - more than 100 ng / l.

Folic acid is able to interact with many medications, which requires mandatory consultation with a doctor and individual prescription of doses, frequency of administration and duration of treatment.

The underestimation of folic acid is obvious. But with an increase in the priority of a healthy lifestyle in the system of human values, it will occupy its rightful niche and will be able to fully demonstrate its wonderful abilities.

About folic acid. Program "Live healthy!"

Content

Vitamin B9 is a biologically inactive substance, so it is obtained artificially for medical purposes. Fresh vegetables are rich in folic acid, especially spinach, meat and liver, but in some situations this is not enough for normal life. It is taken by ingestion of tablets or the contents of ampoules.

How to drink folic acid

Once in the human body, folic acid is converted to a biologically active form, similar to enzymes. This produces amino acids. It is also necessary to take the drug for:

normal functioning of blood cells;
DNA synthesis;
anemia treatment;
antimicrobial therapy;
cancer prevention;
proper growth of the fetus during pregnancy.

The question of how to take folic acid is of concern to many. The average rate of vitamin intake is 1.5-3 mg per day for an adult per month (the intake is divided into 3 parts) and up to 200 mcg for children, consumed once. You can take the drug in the form of tablets, powders or ampoules. The latter form of release is used as an injection and externally.

Indications for taking B9 are:

pregnancy;
treatment of leukopenia and anemia;
treatment of tropical diarrhea, intestinal tuberculosis, chronic gastroenteritis;
against hair loss;
for skin beauty;
for the effect of weight loss.

Contraindications for the use of the drug:

a long course of administration - to prevent a decrease in the concentration of vitamin B12;
kidney disease;
allergy;
violation of iron metabolism;
bronchial asthma.

Of the side effects note:

bitterness in the mouth, nausea;
bloating;
itching, skin rash;
asthma attacks.

Daily folic acid intake for women

For the normal functioning of all body systems, an adult woman should receive 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, but almost always this amount is obtained from food. When planning a pregnancy, 600 mcg is required daily a couple of months before conception, but you can take this amount only after consulting a doctor. For nursing mothers, the recommended dose of the drug is 500 mcg daily, while an overdose is unlikely.

Daily dose of folic acid for men

B9 is also useful for men to drink. This raises the question of how to take folic acid. In the male body, folic acid affects the quality and quantity of sperm, so you need to drink it before conception to prevent the risk of reducing sperm quality. If the body of the future father does not have enough vitamin, then the child may develop schizophrenia, epilepsy, and even Down syndrome. To prevent this, before conception, a man should take the drug according to the instructions at a dosage of 400 mcg for 100 days.

Adolescent boys need the drug to regulate normal spermatogenesis. If their body lacks B9, then growth retardation, memory impairment, loss of appetite are noticeable. You need to get folic acid from green vegetables, offal, fish, dairy products. To prevent deficiency, it is recommended to take 1 mg per day for a course of 2-5 days according to the instructions.

When doing bodybuilding, the need for a vitamin increases, because its deficiency leads to overeating, lack of muscle mass due to the reduced ability of the body to synthesize new cells. Athletes need a remedy for protein formation, muscle preservation and recovery after heavy loads. The recommended rate is 600 micrograms, which can be increased to 1000 micrograms in some cases.

How to drink folic acid for children

Already inside the mother's womb, the child needs B9, which enters his body through the placenta. After birth and up to 3 years, the vitamin is needed for the active growth and development of most organs and systems. Children under 12 months of age may not be given the drug if the mother is well fed and has a balanced diet. The need for a vitamin has the following dependence on age in mcg:

up to six months - 25;
up to a year - 35;
up to 3 years - 50;
up to 6 years - 75;
up to 10 years - 100;
up to 14 - 200;
up to 18 - 200.

You need to take the drug in tablets according to the instructions. One dosage contains 1 mg or 1000 mcg of the vitamin, therefore, to measure the daily dose, pediatricians are advised to dissolve the tablet in water and draw the indicated amount with a measuring syringe. Tablets can be avoided if the child eats the required amount of green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, eggs, cod liver or chicken, beef.

How to use folic acid during pregnancy

An important period of pregnancy involves taking vitamin B9, because it takes part in the formation of the neural tube of the unborn child, ensures the normal functioning of the placenta and its health, and reduces the risk of miscarriage. If you do not receive the remedy in the right dosage, the child may develop:

hydrocephalus;
delayed brain activity;
delayed muscle development.

If pregnancy is planned, then you need to take the vitamin in advance, but if it is not planned, then you can drink it immediately, as the woman realized that she was pregnant. In the first trimester, the doctor prescribes a pregnant woman 400 mcg twice a day, the vitamin should be taken at the same time, before meals, with water. In the second trimester, the dose of a pregnant woman is prescribed up to 600 mcg per day, and in the third - up to 800.

Any amount is prescribed by the doctor after a thorough examination. The intake rate of B9 for a pregnant woman can be increased for the following reasons:

the active substance is quickly excreted from the body;
ultrasound revealed the risk of developing fetal defects;
genetic defects in parents;
diseases of the stomach, intestines, Bladder;
constant vomiting.

Folic acid (other names - vitamin B9, folacin) plays a very important role at the stage of pregnancy planning. It affects the productivity of conception and the full bearing of a strong, healthy baby without deviations and pathologies.

If a lack of this vital substance is found in the body of future parents, problems may arise in the future, which will be quite difficult to solve. Therefore, when planning pregnancy, folic acid is the foundation for the health of the unborn baby, which is laid by young people who want to become parents soon.

Taking this vitamin raises a lot of questions that are best answered by experts.

To begin with, future parents should understand why they should drink folic acid when planning a pregnancy - and not only for women, but also for men. Firstly, this vitamin will prepare the body for the full conception of a baby, and both spouses are involved in this process. Folic acid:

activates the absorption and breakdown of proteins;
needed for cell division
contributes to normal blood formation;
helps to improve appetite;
helps to digest amino acids and sugar;
is important in the formation of DNA and RNA, which are involved in the direct transmission of hereditary traits;
prevents the development of atherosclerosis;
protects against food poisoning;
supports immunity;
improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
helps to assimilate other vitamins necessary for normal conception and childbearing.

Secondly, folic acid is very important when planning a pregnancy for women, because if it is lacking during the carrying of a baby, serious problems can begin:

pathology of the egg, which either cannot be fertilized at all (i.e., conception will not occur), or will not guarantee the formation of a healthy fetus;
placental abruption (both partial and absolute);
spontaneous abortion (miscarriage);
congenital malformations in a child: anencephaly, neural tube defect, malnutrition, cleft lip, mental retardation;
anemia, which can lead to;
loss of appetite, which means that the child in the womb will not receive enough nutrients that he needs for full development;
irritability and fatigue, as a result of which the baby can be born nervous and capricious.

Future fathers should know that folic acid is of no less importance when planning a pregnancy for men, since if it is lacking, conception may not occur at all. Vitamin B9 for everyone who dreams of becoming a dad is simply necessary, because:

reduces the number of defective, low-quality spermatozoa, which initially carry the wrong set of chromosomes (in the future this can be expressed in serious fetal pathologies);
increases several times the chances of conceiving a strong, healthy, full-fledged baby;
increases the mobility and penetrating ability of spermatozoa.

Now it becomes clear why folic acid is so necessary for both men and women when planning a pregnancy. Very often, conception does not occur precisely because one of the spouses (or both at once) has a lack of vitamin B9. And 80% of the pathologies of the nervous system in newborns are due to the same cause.

In order not to face such serious problems, it is necessary to start replenishing the deficiency of folacin in the body long before pregnancy. This can be done with medications and foods rich in folic acid.

Also, do not forget that our health and internal flora are very dependent on external influencing factors, especially personal hygiene. How often do you pay attention to the composition of the washing cosmetics that you use? Shower gels, wash gels, shampoos, any product that gets on exposed skin affects the internal flora of the body.

The choice of cosmetics should be treated more carefully, especially during conception and further pregnancy. Avoid products that contain silicones and parabens, as well as incomprehensible abbreviations DEA, MEA, TEA. Such chemicals have a detrimental effect on the body, getting through the pores into the bloodstream and settling on the organs. Pay attention to expiration dates. When using real natural ingredients, the shelf life cannot exceed one year.

Foods rich in vitamin B9

If both parents before planning a pregnancy lead healthy lifestyle life, do not suffer from any chronic diseases and are well-nourished, they may not be prescribed folic acid as a separate drug. However, future parents should definitely include foods rich in folic acid in their daily diet. These include:

leafy greens: sorrel, dill, spinach, cilantro, parsley, lettuce;
legumes, beans, green peas;
citrus fruits, watermelon, peaches;
oatmeal, buckwheat, rice groats, wholemeal flour;
almonds, walnuts;
animal products: liver, meat, kidneys;
sea fish;
cheese, milk, cream, kefir, cottage cheese;
beets, cabbage, onions, carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, melon, cucumber;
chicken eggs.

It should be noted here that folic acid loses its properties during heat treatment. beneficial features. Therefore, if possible, these foods are best consumed either fresh (leafy greens, for example) or steamed (meat and fish).

Even with the daily use of a sufficient amount of these products, a lack of vitamin B9 is very often detected. In this case, future parents are prescribed one of the medications containing folic acid.

Folic acid medications

Regular use of folic acid when planning pregnancy is the key to successful conception and bearing a full-fledged baby. Therefore, future parents are often prescribed medications with its content.

Folic acid tablets

One of the most best options taking folic acid when planning a pregnancy. This medicine has advantages such as price (very inexpensive) and quality. Usually, the dosage in tablets (one contains 1 mg of vitamin B9) when planning a pregnancy is indicated in the instructions and is 1 tablet per day.

Tablets "Folacin", "Apo-folic"

These drugs are also presented in the form of tablets, but they already contain 5 mg of vitamin B each, while daily dose folic acid when planning pregnancy is 800 mcg (for women). Therefore, these drugs are prescribed only in cases where one of the spouses (couples) has an acute shortage of this substance. In this case, there will be no harm from an excess of folacin to the body, since everything superfluous will simply be removed from it. These drugs are not recommended to be taken on their own, without a doctor's prescription, as they are considered curative, not preventive.

Tablets "Folio"

Very good drug, since it contains two elements at once, which are necessary for a full-fledged conception and the successful bearing of a child in the future. Contains 400 micrograms of vitamin B9, while the daily folic acid requirement for women is 800 micrograms (i.e., you will need to drink 2 tablets per day), the dosage for men is 400 micrograms (1 tablet per day will be enough), and 200 micrograms iodine. The dose of the active substance in this medicine is prophylactic, i.e. covers the needs female body in the absence of folacin deficiency.

Multivitamin complexes

Folic acid is also contained in all vitamin complexes specially designed for those who are planning a pregnancy. These are "Materna", "Elevit", "Vitrum prenatal", "Vitrum prenatal forte", "Multi-tabs perinatal", "Pregnavit". All these complexes are accompanied by an instruction that indicates the content of folic acid in them. It usually ranges from 400 to 1,000 mcg, which is the prophylactic dosage at this stage for new parents.

There are a lot of drugs, but they raise a sufficient number of questions from future parents: how to take folic acid when planning a pregnancy - as a separate medicine or in combination with other vitamins, in what dosage and for how long. This information should be told by the doctor after the examination, or, in extreme cases, it can be found in the instructions for the prescribed drugs.

If there is any doubt whether you have chosen the correct daily dosage of folic acid when planning pregnancy and for how long you need to start taking it before conception, a few simple, but very useful tips help you resolve them. A kind of universal instruction for all preparations containing vitamin B9 will prevent possible errors.

How to use?

If the examination revealed a significant deficiency of folic acid in the body of the expectant mother or father, they are prescribed medications containing directly only folacin. If there are no problems with the lack of this substance, the doctor may advise vitamin complexes and nutrition with foods rich in vitamin B9.

What should be the dosage?

A very important question is how much folic acid to drink when planning a pregnancy for men and women. Since the body of the future mother will need to give a sufficiently large amount of folacin to the child for the full formation of his nervous system and brain, she will need a daily dose of 800 mcg. For future fathers, for the usefulness, health and mobility of spermatozoa necessary for successful conception, a dosage of 400 micrograms of folic acid will be enough. However, these figures apply only to those who lead a healthy lifestyle and do not suffer from catastrophic vitamin B9 deficiency. Otherwise, the dosage is increased by the doctor depending on the individual characteristics of the organism.

When to start drinking?

The difficulty is that vitamin B9 does not have the ability to accumulate in the body: it is very actively consumed in it, and all the excess is constantly removed from it. In order for the conception to be successful, doctors recommend starting to drink folic acid preparations 3 months before the cherished date.

What affects the absorption of folic acid by the body?

Very often, despite the fact that future parents actively and on time began to take folic acid when planning pregnancy, the fetus subsequently still has pathologies of the nervous system associated with a lack of this vitamin. This happens because they, taking the right drug, did nothing to ensure that it was absorbed in full.

Folic acid in the body is spent several times more if a person actively smokes, abuses alcohol, does not get enough sleep regularly, is in a state of constant depression, takes antibiotics for a long time, or hormonal preparations, has problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, both parents are strongly advised to give up all bad habits before conception, start leading a healthy lifestyle, take medicines as little as possible, restore their nervous system and undergo treatment for all chronic diseases.

Is it possible to overdose on folic acid?

Vitamin B9 is good because it is actively excreted from the body, if not all is consumed. Therefore, there is no need to be afraid of being poisoned by this drug or experiencing unpleasant side effects From him. However, this does not mean at all that folacin tablets can be eaten in unlimited quantities, and nothing will come of it. It is necessary to adhere to the dosages prescribed by the doctor and indicated in the instructions. Only then the drug used will benefit.

Now you know why folic acid is so important when planning a pregnancy for both men and women. With its lack in the body, even conception may fail due to low mobility or poor quality of spermatozoa or the inferiority of the egg.

The successful bearing of a child is also impossible without the necessary amount of folacin in the mother's body: this threatens with serious, irreversible pathologies for the fetus and is fraught with miscarriage. Therefore, those who plan to conceive a baby in the near future should pay special attention to vitamin B9 so that there are no problems in such an important and responsible business.

Even at the stage of pregnancy planning, a woman needs to think about taking the missing vitamins and minerals, which play an important role in bearing a child. Folic acid is included in the list of mandatory components that a future mother should take not only during pregnancy, but also before it occurs. How much and how to take folic acid? Doctors recommend drinking 400 mcg per day, but it is worth understanding this issue in more detail.

Benefits of Vitamin B9

Folic acid (aka vitamin B9) is extremely beneficial for human health. It is with its help that the body produces new cells, adjusts the work immune system, the function of digestion, the cardiovascular system return to normal. Vitamin B9 has a positive effect on liver function, amino acid synthesis, takes part in protein metabolism, normalizes blood pressure, and reduces the risk of stroke.

Also folic acid:

stimulates appetite;
plays an important role in the synthesis of DNA and RNA;
helps excretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach;
reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer.

Pregnancy planning

Women who dream of replenishment in the family should definitely use folic acid. It is necessary to compensate for the vitamin deficiency even when planning pregnancy. How much? It is advisable to start taking folic acid 2-3 months before the expected date of conception.

Vitamin B9 cannot be stocked up for future use, so it is advisable to replenish its norm daily.

During pregnancy, the need for folic acid increases by 2 times, since now both the expectant mother and her baby need this vitamin. It is especially important to drink the required amount of vitamin in the first trimester of pregnancy, when the child's nervous system is developing intensively.

Folic acid deficiency can lead to:

the development of congenital malformations in the fetus;
inability to bear fruit;
detachment of the placenta;
cerebral hernia in the fetus and many other consequences.

To minimize or completely eliminate severe consequences, you should start taking folic acid as early as possible, even when planning a pregnancy. How much to drink, as well as the norms and dosages of the component, we will analyze further.

When planning a pregnancy, the first thing to do is to normalize the amount of vitamin B9 in the body. The daily requirement is 0.4 mg, or 400 mcg. This norm is enough for the coordinated work of the whole organism of the expectant mother. At the same time, you don’t have to worry if pregnancy occurs unexpectedly, because folic acid is already entering the body. But with the news of an "interesting situation", the dose should be increased to 800 mcg.

During the period of breastfeeding, you should not give up the use of folic acid, because its transmission still occurs to the baby, but only with breast milk.

Folic acid should be taken morning time during or after meals, drinking a tablet with plenty of water. Taking this drug is a prerequisite for all those who plan to conceive a child.

Contraindications and warnings

Like any other drug, folic acid has contraindications. The presence of malignant tumors may mean a ban on taking this component. The fact is that vitamin B9 can stimulate an increase in tumor cells, which is undesirable for any person, especially for a future mother.

with a deficiency of cobalamin (vitamin B12),
hemosiderosis (excessive deposition in the tissues of the pigment hemosiderin),
hemochromatosis (impaired iron metabolism),
pernicious anemia (poor absorption of vitamin B12),
hypersensitivity to the drugs that are part of the drug.

Before taking any tablets, including folic acid, you should consult your doctor.

An overdose of this vitamin is rare.

If a woman has taken folacin (vitamin B9) in high doses for a long time, then this can lead to such consequences:

kidney dysfunction,
zinc deficiency,
rash,
metallic and bitter taste in the mouth,
mood change.

Vitamin complexes and tablets

Many vitamin complexes are now offered, which include a large list of essential substances, including vitamin B9. This method of consumption is very convenient because you do not need to drink each microelement separately, and then remember what you drank and how much.

For pregnant women, there are also vitamin complexes in which the necessary norms of components are calculated.

When choosing individual folic acid tablets, the situation is somewhat different. Basically, tablets are packaged in 1 mg and 5 mg (5 mg is a therapeutic dose with a strong deficiency of the component). In order, for example, to get 0.4 mg of acid, the tablet should be divided approximately in half (extra use of 0.1 mg will not hurt). This method is not very convenient, so vitamin B9 is still more often used in conjunction with multivitamin complexes.

The lack of vitamin B9 can be replenished with the help of food. Even if you take folic acid tablets and at the same time eat meals that contain a high content of this microelement, it will definitely not get worse.

In the first place in terms of the highest content of folic acid is greens. Spinach, lettuce, parsley, onions - all these foods are not only tasty, but also very rich in vitamin B9. Real pantry useful substances, but also a great addition to any meat or side dish. Of all the greens, it is worth highlighting spinach.

In 100 g of spinach - 263 mcg of folic acid, which is 65% of its norm per day for a person.

Meat products also do not lag behind in the content of such a useful substance as folacin. It is present at 240 mcg in 100 g of beef liver, 225 g in pig liver, and 110 g in cod liver. The liver itself is a valuable product. When planning a pregnancy, you should eat at least 100 g of this healthy dish, because how well and fully the mother eats, her baby will be strong and healthy.

Separately, it is worth noting asparagus, because it contains 262 g of folacin, as well as copper, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamins A, B, C, E. Asparagus leads among all vegetables in terms of folic acid content. In addition, it is an excellent cure for cystitis, prostatitis, and various infections.

Everyone knows that nuts are a very nutritious and high-calorie food. But they also contain many useful substances, especially for the female body. The leader in the content of vitamin B9 is peanuts, in which it is 240 mcg per 100 g, which is 60% of the daily requirement. Folic acid is also found in walnuts- 77 micrograms, hazelnuts - 68 micrograms, pistachios - 51 micrograms, cashews - 25 micrograms.

Do not forget about the future dad

It is generally accepted that when planning a pregnancy, only one woman should eat right, take vitamins, lead a healthy lifestyle, etc. But after all, two people take part in conception, including the father of the family, but they forget about his health, and in vain. Taking folic acid will also benefit dad.

The fact is that when using folacin, the number of spermatozoa with various defects decreases (chromosome set error, lack of a head or tail). The quality of sperm improves, which means that the likelihood of conceiving a healthy child increases. If a man smokes, then when planning a pregnancy, it's time to quit this bad habit.

In addition to the fact that the future father ruins his own health, nicotine also prevents folic acid from being absorbed. Then it turns out that all the efforts on the part of the pope are in vain.

The dosage of vitamin B9 in men is the same as in women - 400 mcg. But you should remember about possible contraindications and drug overdose. Folic acid should be started for a man a few months before conception, just like for a woman.

Description

Flat-cylindrical tablets from pale yellow to yellow color, with chamfer and risk. The presence of blotches of a darker and lighter color is allowed.

Composition

Each tablet contains active ingredient: folic acid - 1 mg; Excipients: powdered sugar, potato starch, stearic acid.

Pharmacotherapeutic group

Antianemic agents. Folic acid and its derivatives.
ATX code: B03BB01.

Pharmacological properties

Pharmacodynamics
Vitamin B group (vitamin B9) can be synthesized by the intestinal microflora. In the body, folic acid is reduced to tetrahydrofolic acid, which is a coenzyme involved in various metabolic processes. It is necessary for the normal maturation of megaloblasts and the formation of normoblasts. Stimulates erythropoiesis, participates in the synthesis of amino acids (including glycine, methionine), nucleic acids, purines, pyrimidines, in the metabolism of choline, histidine.
Pharmacokinetics
Folic acid, prescribed as a drug, is well and completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, mainly in the upper
departments of the duodenum (even in the presence of malabsorption syndrome against the background of tropical sprue, at the same time, food folates are poorly absorbed in malabsorption syndrome). Intensively binds to plasma proteins. Penetrates through the BBB, the placenta and into breast milk. TCmax - 30 - 60 min.
It is deposited and metabolized in the liver with the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid (in the presence of ascorbic acid under the action of dihydrofolate reductase).
Excreted by the kidneys mainly as metabolites; if the accepted dose significantly exceeds the daily requirement for folic acid, then it is excreted unchanged.
Excreted by hemodialysis.

Indications for use

Treatment of macrocytic (folic acid deficiency) anemia.
Treatment of folic acid deficiency: a) with malabsorption syndrome (non-tropical and tropical sprue; celiac disease, subject to the impossibility of observing a gluten-free diet); b) in violation of the metabolism of folate against the background of the use of certain drugs (antiepileptics, combined oral contraceptives, cytostatics), with liver diseases and insufficient intake of folic acid (for example, alcohol dependence, malnutrition); c) with increased excretion of folic acid (for example, against the background of alcohol dependence, hemolytic anemia).
In pregnant women to prevent the development of defects in the formation of the neural tube in the fetus.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug (LS).
Pernicious anemia and other conditions associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, due to the fact that folic acid monotherapy can accelerate the onset of subacute degenerative changes in the spinal cord in this case. Taking folic acid as monotherapy for more than 3 months in such individuals leads to the development of cobalamin neuropathy. Shorter courses do not cause this complication. In the elderly, therefore, cobalamin absorption should be assessed before initiating folic acid therapy.
Folate-dependent neoplasms, unless severe megaloblastic or macrocytic anemia is a complication of ongoing anticancer therapy.

Dosage and administration

inside. Before eating. It is allowed to crush the tablet before taking it for children and persons who have difficulty swallowing.
Adults (including the elderly):
With a medical deficiency of folic acid - 5 mg per day for 4 months; with malabsorption - it is possible to use up to 15 mg daily.
For the prevention of anemia in chronic hemolytic status: 5 mg every 1 to 7 days, depending on the exacerbations of the disease.
Children with hemolytic anemia and metabolic disorders
In children under the age of 4 years, it is allowed to use tablets in a pre-crushed form in the form of a powder. Doses of folic acid in children are: at the age of up to 1 year 0.5 mg / kg (½ tablet per 1 kg of body weight) 1 time per day, but not more than 5 mg / day, at the age of 1 to 12 years - 2, 5 - 5 mg / day; over 12 years old - 5 - 10 mg / day 1 time per day.
For the treatment of macrocytic (folic acid deficiency) anemia, the following is prescribed: for adults and children of any age, the initial dose is up to 1 mg / day (1 tablet). Daily doses of more than 1 mg do not enhance the hematological effect, and most of the excess folic acid is excreted unchanged in the urine. In resistant cases, higher doses may be required. Initial doses are used for about 14 days or until a hematological and clinical response is obtained, then they are switched to maintenance treatment. The total duration of therapy can be about 4 months.
Maintenance treatment: for children under 4 years old: for infants - 0.1 mg / day, for children under 4 years old - up to 0.3 mg / day; children over 4 years old and adults - 0.5 mg (½ tablet), during pregnancy and lactation - 1 mg / day, but not less than 0.1 mg / day.
For established folic acid deficiency during pregnancy: 5 mg daily throughout pregnancy. For the prevention of neural tube defects in the presence of a history of malformations: 4-5 mg daily 1 month before the planned conception and for 3 months after it. In the absence of a history of neural tube defects (or other predisposing factors): 0.5 mg (½ tablet) daily for 10 to 12 weeks after the last menstrual period. During pregnancy, the appointment of folic acid in doses above 0.4 mg / day can be carried out only after malignant (pernicious) anemia associated with vitamin B12 deficiency has been excluded.
The duration of folic acid intake is not precisely defined, sometimes a multi-month course of taking the drug is required to resume and maintain normal hematopoiesis. In the case of elimination of the main causes of vitamin deficiency, improvement of the diet or elimination of concomitant diseases, the use may be terminated ahead of schedule. With concomitant alcoholism, hemolytic anemia, chronic infectious diseases, concomitant use of anticonvulsant drugs, after removal of the stomach, malabsorption of nutrients, liver failure, cirrhosis, stress, the dose of the drug should be increased and longer treatment may be required.

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Side effect

Reactions from the immune system: rarely (from 1/1000 to 1/10000 cases) - skin rash, pruritus, urticaria, bronchospasm, erythema, hyperthermia, anaphylactic reactions (including shock).
From the gastrointestinal tract: rarely (from 1/1000 to 1/10000 cases) - loss of appetite, nausea, bloating and flatulence.
From the side of hematopoiesis: may mask manifestations of B12 deficiency anemia.
From the nervous system: when taken in doses of more than 15 mg / day, sleep disturbance, problems with concentration, irritability, excitability, depression, confusion are possible. In people with epilepsy, an increase in the frequency of seizures is possible.

Precautionary measures

Medicine is not intended for the prevention of hypo- and beriberi in children (due to a mismatch daily requirement and drug dosages).
For the prevention of hypovitaminosis B9 most preferably balanced diet. Foods rich in vitamin B9 - green vegetables (lettuce, spinach), tomatoes, carrots, fresh liver, legumes, beets, eggs, cheese, nuts, cereals.
Folic acid is removed by hemodialysis, this should be taken into account in persons with severe renal insufficiency.
During treatment, the therapeutic effect should be monitored by laboratory tests and the diagnosis should be reconsidered in the absence of the expected effect. Serum potassium and iron/ferritin levels should be monitored.
Cobalamin metabolism should be established in all cases of pernicious anemia (not only during pregnancy).
Folic acid should not be used routinely in patients with coronary stents.
Caution should be exercised when prescribing folic acid to patients who may have folic acid-dependent tumors.
Folic acid at doses above 0.1 mg daily may mask pernicious anemia by improving haematological parameters, while neurological manifestations will progress. In this regard, folic acid is not used to treat B12-deficient (pernicious), normocytic and aplastic anemia, as well as anemia refractory to therapy. Until pernicious anemia is excluded, the appointment of folic acid in doses exceeding 0.1 mg / day is not recommended (with the exception of pregnancy and lactation).
When using large doses of folic acid, as well as therapy for a long period, it is possible to reduce the concentration of vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) in the blood. Long-term use of folic acid is recommended to be combined with vitamin B12 intake.
During treatment, folic acid should be taken 2 hours after taking antacids, as well as 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking cholestyramine.
It should be borne in mind that antibiotics can distort (deliberately underestimate) the results of microbiological assessment of the concentration of folic acid in plasma and erythrocytes.
The medicinal product contains sucrose, which should be taken into account in patients with congenital fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption or sucrase-isomaltase deficiency.

Use during pregnancy

The drug is used according to indications during pregnancy and lactation. Daily intake of folic acid for early dates pregnancy can prevent fetal neural tube defects (anencephaly, spina bifida). If the drug is started after the fourth week of pregnancy, folic acid does not effective action to prevent neural tube defects.
Deficiency of the vitamin or its metabolites may also be associated with spontaneous abortions and intrauterine growth retardation.

Lactation

Folic acid is actively excreted in breast milk. The accumulation of folates in milk prevails over the needs of the mother's body in folic acid. Folic acid levels are relatively low in colostrum, but as lactation increases, the concentration of the vitamin increases. Adverse effects in infants on breastfeeding whose mothers received folic acid were not observed.
The total amount of folic acid in breast milk meets the needs of the child, although additional doses of folic acid may be needed for children with low birth weight, those who are breastfed by mothers with folic acid deficiency (50 mcg per day), or in children with prolonged infectious diarrhea.