What is Calcium folinate?

Calcium folinate is a medication used to reduce the toxic side effects caused by high doses of methotrexate. Calcium folinate is also referred to as leucovorin calcium or folinic acid.

Use

Calcium Folinate is mainly used for colorectal cancer treatment in association with 5-fluorouracil and Oxaliplatin (FOLFOX egimen) or with 5-fluorouracil and Irinotecan (FOLFIRI regimen).

Additionally, it is administered as salvage therapy to reduce toxic effects after high doses of methotrexate in the treatment of some neoplastic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis or severe psoriasis.

Calcium Folinate is also given to treat anaemia caused by folate deficiency. 

How does it work? 

Calcium folinate is not a chemotherapy agent, however is used in combination with methotrexate to reduce its side effects. Methotrexate inhibits nucleic acid synthesis by blocking the activation of folic acid. Calcium folinate is folic acid in the active form, and when given, it allows nucleic acid synthesis to proceed even in the presence of methotrexate. It is given after the administration of methotrexate is complete to “rescue” the normal cells in the body from the side effects of methotrexate. 

How is it given? 

Calcium folinate is administered as an intravenous (IV) injection over 3 to 5 minutes. Calcium folinate can also be given by mouth as a tablet.

Side Effects

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

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