Novafol Tablets 30s

Description

Novafol contains L-Methylfolate 400mcg, which is the active and biologically available form of folic acid. Unlike regular folic acid, L-Methylfolate is absorbed directly and immediately utilized by the body. It helps manage conditions related to folate deficiency, impaired absorption, and high homocysteine levels, particularly in women during pregnancy.

Ingredients

• L-Methylfolate 400mcg

Drug Class

• Anti-anemic (Folic Acid Supplement)

Uses

Novafol is prescribed for the dietary management of:

• Women at high risk of recurrent pregnancy loss

• Impaired folic acid absorption or metabolism

• Hyperhomocysteinemia during pregnancy

• Prevention of neural tube defects in newborns

• Folic acid deficiency states

Dosage

• General dose: 1–2 tablets daily, or as advised by a physician

• Folic acid deficiency: 250–1000 mcg/day

• Neural tube defect prevention: At least 400 mcg/day before and during early pregnancy; women with prior history may need 4 mg/day as prescribed

• High homocysteine levels: 0.5–5 mg/day (commonly 0.8–1 mg/day effective)

Overdose: Doses above 15mg/day do not increase effectiveness. Seek medical advice if accidental overdose occurs.
Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

How to Use

• Take with a glass of water, with or without food

• Swallow whole; do not crush or chew

• Take at the same time every day for best results

When Not to Use

Do not use Novafol if you have:

• Allergy to L-Methylfolate or any tablet component

• History of untreated pernicious anemia (B12 deficiency must be corrected first)

Side Effects

Novafol is generally well tolerated, but some patients may experience:

• Nausea, stomach upset

• Loss of appetite

• Sleep disturbances

• Flatulence

• Rare: allergic skin rash

Precautions & Warnings

• Women planning pregnancy or who are pregnant should consult their doctor for correct dosage

• Patients with vitamin B12 deficiency should be tested before taking folate supplements to avoid masking symptoms

• Use cautiously in patients with kidney disease or seizure disorders

• Do not exceed the prescribed dose

Drug Interactions

L-Methylfolate may interact with:

• Methotrexate, phenytoin, carbamazepine (reduced effectiveness)

• Certain anticonvulsants

• Sulfasalazine and other drugs affecting folate metabolism

Storage & Disposal

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and sunlight

• Keep in original packaging until use

• Keep out of children’s reach

Quick Tips

• Women planning pregnancy should start supplementation at least 1 month before conception

• Do not self-medicate with high doses; follow your doctor’s prescription

• Maintain a balanced diet along with supplementation

Doctor’s Overview — Dr. Nadia Rehman, MBBS, FCPS

Novafol is often given to women who are planning pregnancy or already pregnant, especially if they have trouble absorbing folic acid or a history of high-risk pregnancies. It is an active form of folate, making it more effective than regular folic acid in reducing the risk of neural tube defects in babies. Starting early and continuing as advised is important.

Disclaimer

This overview is for educational purposes only. Novafol is a prescription supplement and should be used only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.