What is this medicine?

FOLIC ACID (FOE lik AS id) is a water-soluble, B complex vitamin. It is in many foods like liver, kidneys, yeast, and leafy, green vegetables. It is used to treat megaloblastic anemia and anemia from poor diet in pregnant women, babies, and children.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• alcoholism or alcohol cirrhosis
• pernicious anemia
• vitamin B12 deficient anemia
• an unusual or allergic reaction to folic acid, other B vitamins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• chloramphenicol
• cholestyramine
• medicines for seizures
• methotrexate
• nitrofurantoin
• pyrimethamine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Your doctor may order blood tests.

You need to eat a proper diet even while you are taking this vitamin. Taking vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Ask your doctor or health care provider for good nutrition advice.