💊 Medicine Name:
Calcium Folinate
(Also known as Leucovorin Calcium)
💊 Formulation:
Oral Tablet
💪 Strength:
15 mg per tablet
📜 Description:
Calcium folinate is the active form of folic acid. It is used:
- To “rescue” normal cells from the toxic effects of folic acid antagonists like methotrexate.
- To enhance the effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in cancer therapy.
- In the treatment of folate deficiency (especially when folic acid is not effective).
🧾 Prescription:
Prescription-only (Rx) in most countries.
Used in both oncology and nutritional deficiency management.
⚙️ Mechanism of Action:
- Bypasses the inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR).
- Allows DNA/RNA synthesis to continue in normal cells during methotrexate therapy.
- Enhances the binding of 5-FU to thymidylate synthase, increasing its antitumor effect.
🎯 Indications / Uses:
- Methotrexate Rescue:
- Used after high-dose methotrexate therapy to prevent damage to normal cells.
- Combination with 5-FU:
- Enhances anticancer activity in colorectal and other cancers.
- Folate Deficiency:
- In cases where folic acid is ineffective (e.g., congenital DHFR deficiency, methanol poisoning).
- Megaloblastic Anemia (rare cases)
📦 Packaging:
- Typically available as blister packs or bottles of 10, 20, or 30 tablets.
- Each tablet contains 15 mg of calcium folinate.
🧊 Storage:
- Store at room temperature (15–25°C)
- Keep in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
⚠️ Precautions:
- Do not substitute calcium folinate for folic acid in anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency (may mask symptoms and worsen neurological damage).
- Monitor when used with 5-FU — risk of enhanced toxicity.
- Dose adjustment may be needed in renal impairment.
👨⚕️ Patient Advice:
- Follow exact timing if taken after methotrexate
- Inform your doctor if you have vitamin B12 deficiency
- Report any skin rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- Continue hydration and regular blood tests if used with chemotherapy