Product image of Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 (Leucovorin Calcium) 5 mg/1 TABLET supplied by GNH India

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1

Active Ingredient:
Leucovorin Calcium
Form:
TABLET
Brand:
Leucovorin Calcium
Origin:
USA

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 (Leucovorin Calcium TABLET) 5 mg/1

Leucovorin Calcium, the active ingredient in Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1, is a folate analog presented as a 5 mg/tablet for oral use. It is used to rescue normal cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate and other folic acid antagonists, and to enhance the efficacy of 5-fluorouracil in cancer treatment. GNH India supplies Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 as a licensed, GDP-compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving oncology centers worldwide.

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 is a critical medication in the management of certain types of anemia and in the treatment of folate deficiency when oral therapy is not feasible. It plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and repair, making it essential in medical settings where folate metabolism is disrupted.

Strength

5 mg/1

Pack Size

5 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON (0054-8496-19) / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc.

1
Pack/s
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Indications & Clinical Uses

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 is used to modulate the effects of other chemotherapeutic agents and to treat folate deficiency. It is primarily indicated for the following conditions:

  • Methotrexate toxicity rescue: Reduces the toxic effects of high-dose methotrexate by replenishing folate levels in healthy cells.
  • Enhancement of 5-fluorouracil efficacy: Potentiates the cytotoxic effect of 5-fluorouracil in the treatment of colorectal cancer.
  • Folate deficiency: Treats megaloblastic anemia caused by folic acid deficiency when oral therapy is not feasible.
  • Leucovorin rescue in high-dose methotrexate therapy: Counteracts the effects of impaired methotrexate elimination or inadvertent overdose.

How It Works

  • Leucovorin Calcium provides a reduced form of folic acid that bypasses dihydrofolate reductase, restoring folate-dependent cellular processes. It enhances the cytotoxic effect of 5-fluorouracil by stabilizing the binding of its active metabolite to thymidylate synthase, thereby potentiating its cytotoxic effect against cancer cells. Additionally, it rescues normal cells from methotrexate toxicity by replenishing folate stores necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis.

Side Effects

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 may cause several side effects, ranging from common to serious. Common Side Effects:

  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • Mouth sores or irritation.
  • Fatigue or headache.
  • Rash, itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing).
  • Seizures (rare, especially with certain antiepileptic drugs).
  • Severe diarrhea, mucositis, and myelosuppression when used with 5-fluorouracil.
  • Renal failure, severe myelosuppression, and mucositis due to inadequate methotrexate rescue.

Precautions & Warnings

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 should be used with caution and under medical supervision. Important precautions include:

  • Allergic reactions: Individuals with known allergies to folic acid or its derivatives should use this medication with caution.
  • Timing: Timing is critical. Always follow your oncologist’s or physician’s exact schedule for optimal results and safety.
  • Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
  • Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption while using this medication.
  • Pregnancy: Use with caution during pregnancy, as it is categorized as pregnancy category C.
  • Storage: Store below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 may interact with certain medications, which can affect its efficacy and safety. Major Interactions (Avoid):

  • Anticonvulsants: May increase the risk of seizures.
  • Methotrexate: Concurrent use requires careful monitoring to avoid toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Trimethoprim: May require dose adjustment.
  • Pyrimethamine: May require dose adjustment.
  • Other drugs that affect folate metabolism: May require dose adjustment and close monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 is used to rescue normal cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate and other folic acid antagonists, enhance the efficacy of 5-fluorouracil in cancer treatment, and treat folate deficiency when oral therapy is not feasible. It is a critical medication in the management of certain types of anemia and in the treatment of folate deficiency.

Leucovorin Calcium provides a reduced form of folic acid that bypasses dihydrofolate reductase, restoring folate-dependent cellular processes. It enhances the cytotoxic effect of 5-fluorouracil by stabilizing the binding of its active metabolite to thymidylate synthase, thereby potentiating its cytotoxic effect against cancer cells. Additionally, it rescues normal cells from methotrexate toxicity by replenishing folate stores necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis.

The dosage of Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 varies significantly based on the indication, patient weight, age, and methotrexate blood levels. It is often given every 6 hours orally or by injection until lab tests confirm safety. Doses above 25 mg are generally administered intravenously rather than orally for better absorption. The prescriber sets the exact regimen based on individual patient needs and clinical context.

Leucovorin Calcium is categorized as pregnancy category C, meaning it should be used with caution during pregnancy. The potential benefits must be weighed against the potential risks. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

To order Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 from GNH India, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com with the required quantity. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies, and procurement teams across international markets and will ask the buyer to confirm trade or institutional credentials. The team will reply with pricing, availability, shipping, and the import paperwork.

Leucovorin Calcium is a reduced form of folic acid that bypasses the enzyme blocked by methotrexate and other dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors. It is more effective in rescuing normal cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate compared to regular folic acid. It also enhances the efficacy of 5-fluorouracil in cancer treatment, making it a crucial medication in oncological settings.

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 should be stored below 25°C, kept in the original pack, and protected from moisture. It is important to handle the medication with care, especially in individuals with known allergies to folic acid or its derivatives. Always follow the prescribed dosage and administration guidelines to avoid potential complications.

Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 is available in tablet form and as an injectable solution for hospital or clinic use. The route of administration depends on the indication and the patient's condition. It is often given every 6 hours orally or by injection until lab tests confirm safety. Doses above 25 mg are generally administered intravenously rather than orally for better absorption.

The most serious risks associated with Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 include severe allergic reactions, seizures (rare, especially with certain antiepileptic drugs), and severe diarrhea, mucositis, and myelosuppression when used with 5-fluorouracil. It is important to monitor for these risks and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

Individuals with known allergies to folic acid or its derivatives should use Leucovorin Calcium 5 mg/1 with caution. It should also be used with caution during pregnancy, as it is categorized as pregnancy category C. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using this medication, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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