Medicines for Folate deficiency

What it is

Folate (vitamin B9) is needed to make healthy red blood cells and for many other body processes, including the development of a baby's spine and brain in early pregnancy. Folate deficiency means the body does not have enough, which can lead to a type of anaemia (with tiredness, breathlessness, pallor and sometimes a sore mouth or tongue) and other symptoms. Common causes include not getting enough folate from the diet (it is found in green leafy vegetables, beans and fortified foods), increased needs (such as in pregnancy), conditions that reduce absorption from the gut (such as coeliac disease), excessive alcohol, and some medicines. It is diagnosed with a blood test. Folate deficiency is particularly important around pregnancy, because low folate around the time of conception increases the risk of neural tube defects in the baby (such as spina bifida) — which is why folic acid supplements are recommended before and in early pregnancy.

How it is treated

Folate deficiency is easily treated, usually with folic acid supplements taken for a period to replenish the body's stores and correct any anaemia, along with addressing the underlying cause — such as improving the diet, treating a gut condition affecting absorption, or reducing alcohol. It is important, before treating with folate alone, to also check for vitamin B12 deficiency, because treating folate deficiency without correcting a coexisting B12 deficiency can occasionally cause problems. Dietary advice helps maintain folate levels through folate-rich foods. For pregnancy, the emphasis is on prevention: folic acid supplements are recommended for anyone trying to conceive and in early pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, with a higher dose advised for some women at greater risk. With treatment, folate deficiency and its anaemia usually resolve well. Care is guided by a GP.