Folic Acid
Folic acid is a synthetic water-soluble B-vitamin (Vitamin B9) essential for DNA synthesis, cellular division, and the proper development of red blood cells. It is critically important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy and infancy, to support fetal development and prevent neural tube defects.
Dosage by Body Weight
Standard nutritional supplementation for adults is 400 mcg daily. Pregnant individuals are advised to take 400 mcg to 800 mcg daily. For clinical folate-deficiency anemia, therapeutic doses can range from 1 mg to 5 mg daily as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 50 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Generally provided through breastmilk or fortified formula. Use supplements only under strict medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 80 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Pediatric liquid formulation is preferred for precise dosing. Monitor clinical response.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 150 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Administer with food to reduce potential mild gastrointestinal upset.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 150 mcg to 200 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure child maintains adequate hydration. Do not exceed recommended dietary allowance unless clinically indicated.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 200 mcg to 300 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- May use crushed tablets mixed with age-appropriate food or pediatric oral solution.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 50 mcg | Once daily | Generally provided through breastmilk or fortified formula. Use supplements only under strict medical supervision. |
| 5-7 kg | 80 mcg | Once daily | Pediatric liquid formulation is preferred for precise dosing. Monitor clinical response. |
| 8-10 kg | 150 mcg | Once daily | Administer with food to reduce potential mild gastrointestinal upset. |
| 11-15 kg | 150 mcg to 200 mcg | Once daily | Ensure child maintains adequate hydration. Do not exceed recommended dietary allowance unless clinically indicated. |
| 16-20 kg | 200 mcg to 300 mcg | Once daily | May use crushed tablets mixed with age-appropriate food or pediatric oral solution. |
Formulation
Purpose
Prevention and treatment of folate deficiency, folate-deficiency anemia, and prevention of neural tube defects during pregnancy.
Generic Name
Folic AcidBranded Drug Names
Folic Acid is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.