Folate
Folate, also known as Vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for DNA and RNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and the production of healthy red blood cells. It is critical during periods of rapid cell division and growth, such as infancy and pregnancy.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage depends on the clinical indication (dietary supplementation vs. deficiency treatment). For children, pediatric liquid drops are preferred for precise dosing. Always consult a pediatrician before initiating therapy.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 50 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Consult a pediatrician. Infant requirements are typically met through breastmilk or fortified formula.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 50 mcg to 800 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Higher doses (up to 1 mg daily) may be prescribed by a physician for documented deficiency or megaloblastic anemia.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 100 mcg to 1 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Use liquid formulations for accurate administration. Monitor blood counts as advised by a doctor.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 150 mcg to 1 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Maintenance dose is usually lower (around 150-200 mcg); therapeutic doses for deficiency can range up to 1 mg.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 200 mcg to 1 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level of 300 mcg/day for dietary supplements unless clinically indicated and supervised.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 50 mcg | Once daily | Consult a pediatrician. Infant requirements are typically met through breastmilk or fortified formula. |
| 5-7 kg | 50 mcg to 800 mcg | Once daily | Higher doses (up to 1 mg daily) may be prescribed by a physician for documented deficiency or megaloblastic anemia. |
| 8-10 kg | 100 mcg to 1 mg | Once daily | Use liquid formulations for accurate administration. Monitor blood counts as advised by a doctor. |
| 11-15 kg | 150 mcg to 1 mg | Once daily | Maintenance dose is usually lower (around 150-200 mcg); therapeutic doses for deficiency can range up to 1 mg. |
| 16-20 kg | 200 mcg to 1 mg | Once daily | Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level of 300 mcg/day for dietary supplements unless clinically indicated and supervised. |
Formulation
Purpose
Prevention and treatment of folate deficiency, folate-deficiency megaloblastic anemia, and prevention of neural tube defects during pregnancy.
Generic Name
Folic AcidBranded Drug Names
Folate 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.