Vitamin B9 or folic acid is a supplement to prevent and overcome vitamin B9 deficiency (deficiency). Vitamin B9 plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells and genetic material, such as DNA. Folic acid is also used to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus.

Naturally, the need for vitamin B9 can be fulfilled by regularly eating foods rich in folic acid, such as beef liver, spinach, cereals, broccoli, cabbage, radishes, lettuce, papaya, bananas, avocados, oranges, lemons, peanuts, eggs, or fish. In addition, folic acid is also available in the form of vitamin supplements that are generally consumed by pregnant women, women who are planning a pregnancy, or people who have anemia.

Precautions Before Using Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

There are several things you should pay attention to before using vitamin B9 supplements, including:

Do not use B9 supplements if you are allergic to the ingredients in this product.
Talk to your doctor about taking vitamin B9 supplements if you have or are currently suffering from kidney disease, vitamin B12 deficiency, infection, pernicious anemia, cancer, or alcoholism.
Talk to your doctor about using folic acid if you are or have recently undergone hemodialysis or a stent.
Consult about the appropriate dose and duration of folic acid, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
Do not consume alcoholic beverages while taking folic acid treatment, because it can interfere with the absorption of this vitamin.
See your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to a drug or an overdose after taking vitamin B9.

How to Use Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) Correctly

Vitamin and mineral supplements are taken to meet the body's need for vitamins and minerals, especially when the intake from food is not enough. Keep in mind, supplements are only as a complement to nutritional intake, not as a substitute for nutrients from food. Use vitamin B9 supplements according to the description on the packaging. If necessary, discuss with your doctor to find out the appropriate dose for your condition.

Provision of vitamin B9 supplements in the form of injections will be carried out by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. Vitamin B9 injection form will be injected into the muscle (intramuscular / IM), vein (intravenous / IV), or skin (subcutaneous / SC). Vitamin B9 supplements can be taken before or after meals. Take the medicine with a glass of water. Try to take it at the same time every day for maximum treatment results.

If you forget to take a vitamin B9 supplement, take the drug immediately if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose. Store vitamin B9 in a cool dry place. Avoid heat and direct sunlight. Keep supplements out of reach of children.

Interaction of Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) with Other Drugs

Drug interactions can occur if vitamin B9 is used together with certain drugs. The following drug interactions can occur:

Decreased absorption of vitamin B9 used with triamterene or sulfasalazine
Increased risk of lithium side effects
Decreased blood levels of vitamin B9 and decreased levels of pyrimethamine or antiepileptic drugs, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, or valproate
Decreased therapeutic effect of methotrexate
Enhanced effect of capecitabine or fluorouracil
Decreased therapeutic effect of vitamin B9 when used with chloramphenicol

Side Effects and Dangers of Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

Vitamin B9 rarely causes side effects when taken according to the recommended dosage. However, there are some side effects that can occur after taking folic acid, namely: