Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.
Check symptoms

Folic acid

Brand names: Folvite

Folic acid (vitamin B9) prevents birth defects of the brain and spine and treats low folate.

Brand namesFolvite
Type of medicineVitamin
Prescription?Over the counter; higher doses by prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Everyone who could become pregnant is advised to take it daily, starting before pregnancy.

What it's used for

  • Preventing neural tube defects before and during early pregnancy
  • Folate deficiency anemia
  • With methotrexate to lower side effects

How to take it

  • Take it once a day, with or without food.
  • With methotrexate, follow your provider's schedule.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Usually none
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing

Warnings

  • Folic acid can hide B12 deficiency; your provider may check B12.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • It may lower levels of phenytoin and some other seizure medicines.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Recommended for everyone who could become pregnant. Your provider may advise a higher dose in some cases.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.