LEUCORIN (Folinic acid) is a derivative of folic acid used to reduce the toxic effects of methotrexate and other folic acid antagonists. It also enhances the efficacy of 5-fluorouracil in cancer treatment.
USES
- Reduces the toxic effects of high-dose methotrexate in cancer treatment.
- Increases the effectiveness of 5-FU in colorectal and other cancers.
- Folic acid deficiency anemia.
- Treatment of Methanol or trimethoprim toxicity.
GUARANTEE & EXPIRY DATE
100% original from various Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers. Product photo may vary. All packs are air tight sealed and expire up to 02.2028.
DESCRIPTION
Leucorin (Folinic Acid) is a reduced form of folic acid that plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis, repair, and cell division. It is primarily used as a chemoprotective agent to reduce the toxic effects of folic acid antagonists such as methotrexate and to enhance the therapeutic effects of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in cancer treatment. Leucovorin is also used for treating megaloblastic anemia caused by folic acid deficiency. It does not require enzymatic conversion by dihydrofolate reductase, making it effective even in cases of impaired folic acid metabolism.
Leucorin is a biologically active form of folate that helps in DNA synthesis, repair, and cell division. It is not the same as folic acid but serves similar functions, particularly in conditions where folic acid metabolism is impaired.
- Methotrexate rescue: Methotrexate is a chemotherapy threatment that blocks folic acid, which is necessary for cell division. Leucorin is given after high-dose methotrexate to protect healthy cells and reduce toxicity.
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) enhancement: Leucorin increases the effectiveness of 5-FU, a chemotherapy treatment used to treat colorectal cancer and other cancers.
- Treatment of anemia: It is used in megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency but is not a substitute for vitamin B12 in pernicious anemia.
- Antidote for toxicity: It helps counteract the toxic effects of certain threatments, such as methanol poisoning and overdoses of trimethoprim or pyrimethamine.
PACKAGING & DOSAGE
One pack contains 100 tablets.
Active ingredient: Leucovorin Calcium (Equivalent to 15 mg folinic acid).
Excipients of the core: Lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, starch.
Dosage Recommendations:
Methotrexate Rescue Therapy, 10–25 mg every 6 hours for 48 hours, starting 24 hours after methotrexate.
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) Combination Therapy (Cancer Treatment), 200 mg/m² IV once daily or as per chemotherapy protocol.
Megaloblastic Anemia (due to folate deficiency), 1–5 mg daily (oral or IV) until recovery.
Methanol or Trimethoprim/Pyrimethamine Toxicity, 50–100 mg IV every 6 hours until toxicity resolves.
SIDE EFFECTS AND PRECAUTIONS
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching).
- Nausea, vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Fatigue.
- Fever.
Use with caution in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency (can mask symptoms).
STORAGE
Store in dry place at room temperature. Do not exceed storage temperature higher than 25 degrees Celcius. Keep away from direct sunlight. Keep locked and away from children.
QUESTIONS?
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