Leucovorin: Uses, Dosage, And Side Effects

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Leucovorin is a medication primarily used to reduce the toxicity and counteract the effects of methotrexate, a drug used in the treatment of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis. It's also used in combination with fluorouracil for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Understanding the uses of leucovorin can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about its application. — Woman Jumps Into Polar Bear Enclosure At Berlin Zoo!

What is Leucovorin?

Leucovorin, also known as folinic acid, is a form of folic acid that doesn't require activation by the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. This makes it useful in situations where methotrexate, which inhibits this enzyme, is being used. By providing an alternative source of folate, leucovorin helps protect normal cells from the harmful effects of methotrexate. — Filippa Coster-Waldau: Everything You Need To Know

Uses of Leucovorin

1. Methotrexate Rescue:

  • Leucovorin is commonly used after high-dose methotrexate therapy to protect normal cells and prevent severe side effects like mucositis, myelosuppression, and kidney damage.
  • The timing and dosage of leucovorin administration are crucial for effective rescue.

2. Colorectal Cancer Treatment:

  • Leucovorin is often combined with fluorouracil (5-FU) in the treatment of colorectal cancer.
  • It enhances the effectiveness of 5-FU by stabilizing the binding of 5-FU to its target enzyme, thymidylate synthase.

3. Folate Deficiency:

  • Leucovorin can be used to treat folate deficiency when oral folic acid is not adequately absorbed.
  • This is particularly relevant in patients with malabsorption syndromes.

4. Treatment of Overdoses:

  • It is used to treat overdoses of folic acid antagonists like trimethoprim and pyrimethamine.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of leucovorin varies depending on the specific indication and the patient's condition. It can be administered orally or intravenously. For methotrexate rescue, the dosage and duration are determined by the methotrexate levels in the patient's blood. It's essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.

Side Effects

While leucovorin is generally well-tolerated, some side effects can occur:

  • Allergic reactions (rare)
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances
  • Insomnia
  • Agitation

Precautions

Before using leucovorin, inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking and any existing medical conditions. Leucovorin can interact with certain drugs, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. — Fix Login Error: 401 Unauthorized

Conclusion

Leucovorin is a valuable medication with several important uses, primarily in reducing the toxicity of methotrexate and enhancing the effectiveness of fluorouracil. Understanding its applications, dosage, and potential side effects can help ensure its safe and effective use. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be substituted for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your treatment plan.