Folinal-B12

Folic Acid (15mcg) + Cyanocobalamin (500mcg)
Price: ₹25 - ₹45 for 10 tablets (approx.)
Mfr: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. | Form: Tablet

📋 Clinical Overview

A fixed-dose combination of two essential B vitamins used primarily for the prevention and treatment of nutritional deficiencies. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) is crucial for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neural tube development. Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) is vital for neurological function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. This specific low-dose combination is often used as a maintenance or prophylactic supplement, particularly in the Indian context where dietary deficiencies are common, especially among vegetarians and pregnant women.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: One tablet daily, or as directed by the physician. Typically taken after a meal.

Note: Administer orally with water, preferably after a meal to reduce potential gastric irritation and enhance absorption of fat-soluble vitamins if taken in a multivitamin context. Do not crush or chew unless specified.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to Folic Acid, Cyanocobalamin, or any component of the formulation
  • Untreated Vitamin B12 deficiency (when using folic acid alone, as it can mask anemia)

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Folic Acid acts as a precursor to tetrahydrofolate (THF), a coenzyme involved in one-carbon transfer reactions essential for the synthesis of purines, thymidylate, and amino acids (serine, methionine). This is critical for DNA/RNA synthesis and cell division. Cyanocobalamin is a cofactor for two enzymes: 1) Methionine synthase, which converts homocysteine to methionine using 5-MTHF, linking B12 and folate metabolism. 2) L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase, which converts methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA, crucial for fatty acid and amino acid metabolism.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Mild diarrhea
  • Flushing (feeling of warmth)
  • Skin rash/itching

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category A. Folic Acid is crucial for neural tube defect prevention, but the standard recommended dose is 400-800 mcg/day, much higher than in this combination. This product is NOT sufficient for periconceptional supplementation. Cyanocobalamin is safe. Use only if clearly needed and under medical advice.

Driving: No known effects. Dizziness is a rare side effect.

🔄 Drug Interactions

PhenytoinFolic acid may decrease phenytoin serum levels, potentially reducing seizure control. Phenytoin may reduce folate levels.Major
MethotrexateFolic acid can reduce the anti-folate (antineoplastic) efficacy of methotrexate. However, it is used to reduce methotrexate toxicity in rheumatoid arthritis/psoriasis treatment.Major
PyrimethamineFolic acid antagonizes the antiprotozoal effect against malaria/toxoplasmosis.Major
ChloramphenicolMay antagonize the hematinic response to Cyanocobalamin in treating anemia.Moderate
Proton Pump Inhibitors (Omeprazole, etc.)Long-term use reduces gastric acid, impairing protein-bound B12 release from food, potentially worsening deficiency. Does not significantly affect supplemental cyanocobalamin absorption.Moderate
MetforminLong-term use can reduce Vitamin B12 absorption via calcium-dependent mechanisms, potentially increasing requirement.Moderate
Antiepileptics (Phenobarbital, Primidone)May reduce serum folate levels.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Folinal-B12

Same composition (Folic Acid (15mcg) + Cyanocobalamin (500mcg)), different brands:

Folvite-B12 Folitrax-B12 Zedfol-B12 Becosules-Z