Folic Acid Tips from Pharmacists

• If it is not possible to take folic acid by mouth, your healthcare provider may recommend folic acid supplementation with injections which can be given under the skin (subcutaneous), into a muscle (intramuscular), or into a vein (intravenous).

• Pregnant women need folic acid during early pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the baby. It may not be possible to get enough folic acid from diet and fortified foods. If you are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant, talk to your doctor about taking a prenatal vitamin to ensure you get at least 600 mcg of folic acid daily.

• Talk to your doctor about taking folic acid supplementation if you are at a high risk of folate deficiency due to excessive alcohol intake, gastrointestinal conditions that prevent nutrient absorption, or anti-seizure medications.

• Taking folic acid can treat anemia due to folate deficiency. However, there are other types of anemia for which folic acid supplementation will not work. Your doctor can do blood tests to find out which type of anemia you have and whether it will respond to folic acid supplementation.