What is Leucovorin/Calcium folinate used for?

This medicine is used to reduce harmful levels (toxic effects) of methotrexate, which is used to treat bone cancer. It is also used to lower methotrexate levels when the body cannot metabolize it, and to treat folic acid deficiency. It may also be used to treat some kinds of anemia. It may be used with another medicine to treat some kinds of cancer.

If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine is to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

How should Leucovorin/Calcium folinate be stored?

Store at room temperature and protected from light. Do not store in a humid (wet or moist) area such as the bathroom.

General drug information:

When should Leucovorin/Calcium folinate not be taken?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any ingredient of this medicine you have anemia you have vitamin B12 deficiencies

What precautions should I follow when taking Leucovorin/Calcium folinate?

Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical conditions, such as liver or kidney problems if you are taking seizure medications (especially children)

What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Leucovorin/Calcium folinate?

Monitoring of the serum Methotrexate concentration is essential in determining the optimal dose and duration of treatment of this medicine. Do not share this medicine. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

What are the side effects of Leucovorin/Calcium folinate?

Most severe: Severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth sores; seizures; or fainting.

Most common:  Diarrhea; red, painful, swollen mouth or throat with small ulcers or sores; nausea; vomiting.

Other: None

How should I take Leucovorin/Calcium folinate?

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated, your age, and weight. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. This medicine may be taken without regard to meals. Contact your doctor at once if you have an allergic reaction (trouble breathing, wheezing, fainting, skin rash, or hive). Lab tests will be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Contact your doctor if experience nausea or vomiting. Patients with previous conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medication. Do not stop taking this medication without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.