How do you take Folic acid?

For folate deficiency: take 1 tablet (5 mg) once daily. For pregnancy prevention of birth defects: your doctor may prescribe 400 micrograms (0.4 mg) to 5 mg daily, usually starting before conception and continuing through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. You can take it with or without food, just take it at the same time each day with a glass of water.

What are the side effects of Folic acid?

Folic acid is generally very well tolerated, but some people may experience mild nausea, bloating or gas, loss of appetite, a bitter taste in the mouth, or mild allergic skin reactions like itching

Who should not take Folic acid?

People who are allergic to folic acid or any ingredient in the tablet should not take it. People with certain types of anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency should consult a doctor first, as folic acid alone can mask B12 deficiency and cause serious nerve damage. If you have cancer, speak to your doctor before taking folic acid.

OTC

Vitamin (B-vitamin supplement)

Folic acid

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Folic acid is a type of B vitamin (vitamin B9) that helps your body make new healthy red blood cells and supports proper cell growth and function.

How it works

Provides essential cofactor support for one-carbon transfer reactions required for nucleotide synthesis and DNA methylation, thereby promoting erythropoiesis and normal fetal neural tube development. Acts as a substrate for dihydrofolate reductase to regenerate tetrahydrofolate (THF), the active form necessary for purine and thymidylate synthesis in rapidly dividing cells.

What is it used for?

Anaemia caused by low folic acid (common in pregnancy), prevention of birth defects in unborn babies (spina bifida), supporting healthy pregnancy, treating folate deficiency from poor diet or certain illnesses

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Anaemia Pregnancy & Labour Sickle Cell Disease Vitamins & Supplements

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Buy from reputable pharmacies, avoid buying from roadside vendors or buses, as you may get fake or expired products. If you are pregnant, do not substitute folic acid with random multivitamins without checking that the folic acid dose is adequate. Take it consistently every day for best results, it works best when taken regularly, not just once in a while.

Common Side Effects

Folic acid is generally very well tolerated
but some people may experience mild nausea
bloating or gas
loss of appetite
a bitter taste in the mouth
or mild allergic skin reactions like itching

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing
swelling of the face
lips or tongue (seek emergency help immediately). If you notice any unusual symptoms after starting folic acid
see a doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

Methotrexate (used for arthritis or cancer): folic acid can affect how this drug works, so inform your doctor. Anti-seizure medications like phenytoin or carbamazepine: folic acid can reduce their effectiveness and vice versa. Some antibiotics like tetracycline may interact, so space them apart or tell your pharmacist about all your medications.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Folic acid is safe and strongly recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In fact, doctors in Nigeria routinely prescribe it to all pregnant women to prevent birth defects and anaemia.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to folic acid or any ingredient in the tablet should not take it. People with certain types of anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency should consult a doctor first
as folic acid alone can mask B12 deficiency and cause serious nerve damage. If you have cancer
speak to your doctor before taking folic acid.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.