CALCIUM FOLINATE
About CALCIUM FOLINATE
CALCIUM FOLINATE belongs to the class of medicines known as detoxifying agents or folic acid analogues used in cancer treatment as an antidote to reduce the toxic effects of certain cancer drugs, such as methotrexate. Besides this, it can also use in combination with 5-fluorouracil in cancer treatment (cytotoxic therapy).
CALCIUM FOLINATE contains calcium folinate, also known as Leucovorin, which is a form of vitamin B. It is folic acid in its active form. CALCIUM FOLINATE works by preventing healthy cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate (cancer medicines) while accepting it to enter and kill the cancer cells. It should be administered as soon as possible after taking methotrexate.
CALCIUM FOLINATE will be administered by a qualified healthcare professional. You may experience nausea, diarrhoea, rash, vomiting, itching, urticaria or hives and stomatitis (oral mucositis). Most of these side effects of CALCIUM FOLINATE do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist, contact your doctor.
Before taking the CALCIUM FOLINATE, let your doctor know if you are allergic to any ingredient in it. Inform your doctor about your medical history and other medications you are currently taking to rule out any potential negative effects. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding or if you have pernicious anaemia or other forms of megaloblastic anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, GI toxicity, renal impairment and seizures.
Uses of CALCIUM FOLINATE
Medicinal Benefits
CALCIUM FOLINATE belongs to the class of medicines known as detoxifying agents or folic acid analogues used in cytotoxic therapy as an antidote to reduce the toxicity and effect of certain cancer drugs such as methotrexate. CALCIUM FOLINATE works by preventing healthy cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate (or other cancer medicines) while accepting it to enter and kill the cancer cells. Besides this, it can also use in combination with the drug 5-fluorouracil in cancer treatment (cytotoxic therapy).
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of CALCIUM FOLINATE
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Itching
- Urticaria or hives
- Stomatitis (oral mucositis)
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Harmful effects of methotrexate: Methotrexate treats cancer, severe rheumatoid arthritis, and severe psoriasis. It can cause side effects like swollen gums, headaches, hair loss, dizziness, etc. Infrequently, it can cause fatal side effects. Harmful effects of methotrexate include vision loss, seizures/ fits, loss of consciousness, etc. It can damage the blood, liver, bone marrow, lungs, etc. The drug can lead to birth defects and death in unborn babies.
FAQs
CALCIUM FOLINATE contains calcium folinate, also known as Leucovorin. CALCIUM FOLINATE works by preventing healthy cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate (cancer medicines) while accepting it to enter and kill the cancer cells.
CALCIUM FOLINATE is an antidote to the side effects of various chemotherapy medications, such as methotrexate.
CALCIUM FOLINATE is contraindicated to use in populations with pernicious anaemia or other forms of megaloblastic anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency.
It is contraindicated to use if you are known for hypersensitivity to any components present in CALCIUM FOLINATE or if you have Pernicious anaemia or other anaemias due to vitamin B12 deficiency.
