Folic Acid, Vitamin B9 injection

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.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a vein, into a muscle, or under the skin. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions such as skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat

• breathing problems

• chest tightness or pain

• dizziness

What may interact with this medicine?

• chloramphenicol

• cholestyramine

• medicines for seizures

• methotrexate

• nitrofurantoin

• pyrimethamine

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.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

If you are using this medicine at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label.

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

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

• kidney disease

• pernicious anemia

• vitamin B12 deficient anemia

• an unusual or allergic reaction to folic acid, other B vitamins, benzyl alcohol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

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.