Leucovorin 15mg

Leucovorin 15mg Uses

Leucovorin 15mg is prescribed to:

• Reduce toxicity from high-dose methotrexate therapy in cancer treatments (rescue therapy).
• Treat folic acid deficiency due to conditions like megaloblastic anemia.
• Enhance the effectiveness of fluorouracil (5-FU) in treating colorectal cancer.
• Counteract the toxic effects of folic acid antagonists, such as trimethoprim or pyrimethamine.

How Does Leucovorin 15mg Work

Leucovorin acts as an active form of folic acid, bypassing the blockage of folic acid antagonists. It helps protect healthy cells from the harmful effects of drugs like methotrexate and potentiates the cancer-fighting effects of 5-FU by stabilizing the binding to its target enzyme.

How to Use Leucovorin 15mg

• Take Leucovorin 15mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food.
• For methotrexate rescue therapy, follow the specific dosing schedule provided by your doctor.
• In combination with chemotherapy, it is administered at precise intervals to maximize effectiveness.
• Do not stop taking Leucovorin without consulting your healthcare provider.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue or weakness
• Loss of appetite

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Neurological symptoms, such as confusion or seizures
• Increased risk of infection when used in combination with chemotherapy

Drug Interactions

Leucovorin 15mg may interact with:

• Methotrexate, as part of its rescue therapy to counteract toxicity.
• Fluorouracil (5-FU), where it enhances the anti-cancer effect.
• Antiepileptic drugs like phenobarbital or phenytoin, which may reduce Leucovorin effectiveness.
• Trimethoprim or pyrimethamine, where it counteracts the toxic effects.

Food Interactions

• Leucovorin 15mg can be taken with or without food.
• Maintain a balanced diet during therapy for optimal health support.

Leucovorin 15mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Leucovorin or any of its components.
• Patients with pernicious anemia or other vitamin B12-deficient anemias, as it may mask the condition and worsen neurological damage.

Precautions and Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergies, liver disease, or gastrointestinal disorders.
• Regular monitoring of blood counts and organ function may be required during treatment.
• Use with caution in patients with seizure disorders, as it may affect seizure control.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using Leucovorin.

Storage

• Store Leucovorin 15mg tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets responsibly, following local disposal guidelines.

Safety Information

• Use Leucovorin 15mg only as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not skip doses or alter the dosing schedule without medical advice.
• Report any unusual symptoms, such as severe diarrhea, allergic reactions, or neurological changes, to your doctor immediately.