What is Levomefolate calcium?

L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate calcium is also known as Levomefolate calcium; N-[4-[[(2-amino-1,4,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-5-methyl-4-oxo-6-pteridinyl)methyl]amino]benzoyl]-L-glutamic acid, calcium salt; and L-5-MTHF. L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate calcium is the calcium salt of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid, and a member of the folate group of vitamins (Vitamin B9). 

Uses

Levomefolate calcium is the coenzymated and most active form of folic acid, which performs many vital cellular functions, including DNA reproduction, cysteine cycle and homocysteine regulation. Levomefolate calcium is used as in dietary supplements and has been proposed for treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Experimental Study

Levomefolate calcium is a source of folate and an alternative to folic acid for use in human food and food supplements. The safety of L-5-MTHF-Ca was evaluated by testing for genotoxicity, subchronic and prenatal developmental toxicity. In in vitro assays L-5-MTHF-Ca was not mutagenic and did not induce other chromosomal events. 

Additionally, L-5-MTHF-Ca was not genotoxic in the in vivo micronucleus test nor did it induce DNA damage in rat liver cells. In a subchronic toxicity study, rats administered up to 400 mg/kg bw/day of L-5-MTHF-Ca via oral gavage for 13 weeks had no treatment-related mortalities, and no treatment-related effects were identified on behaviour, body weight, food consumption, ophthalmology, haematology, or organ weights. 

No treatment-related macroscopic or histopathological findings were observed. Calcium and sodium levels increased with increasing dosage, however the slight increases were within historical control ranges and reversible after the recovery period. L-5-MTHF-Ca is neither teratogenic nor embryotoxic. Based on the results of the in vitro and in vivo studies, the safe use of L-5-MTHF-Ca as an ingredient in foods is supported. The no observed adverse effect level was the highest dose in the subchronic toxicity study, i.e. 400 mg/kg bw/day for male and female rats.

Side effects

Levomefolate calcium usually has very few side effects. If you have any unusual effects from taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this product do not have serious 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), dizziness, trouble breathing.

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