Chemical Properties
Off-White to Pale Yellow Solid
Uses
The calcium salt of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid which belongs to the group of folate vitamins (Vitamin B9, Folacin). It is a coenzymated form of folic acid and a more bioavailable alternative in dietary supplements.
Definition
ChEBI: Levomefolate calcium is an organic calcium salt of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid. It has a role as an antidepressant. It contains a (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate(2-).
Brand name
Products containing levomefolate calcium
Brand name: L-Methylfolate Calcium
Multi-ingredient medications containing levomefolate calcium
drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol/levomefolate calcium systemic
Brand names: Beyaz, Tydemy, Safyral, Rajani
Biological Functions
L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate calcium is the calcium salt of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid, and a member of the folate group of vitamins (Vitamin B9). It is the coenzymated and most active form of folic acid, which performs many vital cellular functions, including DNA reproduction, cysteine cycle and homocysteine regulation. L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate calcium is used as in dietary supplements and has been proposed for treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Clinical Use
Folates are a class of water soluble compounds belonging to the Vitamin B complex which are essential for a number of metabolic functions, including processes involved in the development and metabolism of CNS and the production of DNA and RNA, primarily in infancy, adolescence and pregnancy.
Calcium Levomefolate is the active metabolic form of folates in the body.
Folate deficiency consequences can be as serious as birth defects (i.e. "spina bifida"), megaloblastic anaemia, and some types of depression.
Calcium Levomefolate can be the most effective treatment to remedy those deficiencies.
Calcium Levomefolate is formulated in many medical supplements for cases of folate deficiency or need for increased uptake; it is prescribed during pregnancy to prevent birth defects associated with CNS formation and functionality.
It is also the active ingredient in medicinal products prescribed for certain types of depression, disturbed behaviour and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Side effects
Signs of a Levomefolate Calcium allergy: Skin rash Trouble breathing Swelling of the throat, lips, or face Wheezing Runny nose Itchy, watery eyes.
Anaphylaxis is a rare but life-threatening allergic reaction. Signs of anaphylaxis include: Tightening of the throat and airways Nausea Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea Dizziness or lightheadedness Rapid or weak heart rate Reduced blood pressure Seizures Fainting