Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Leucovorin is classified as a folic acid. It is employed in the management of the harmful effects that may arise from the use of methotrexate, a medication utilized in the chemotherapy of certain cancer types. Leucovorin is also utilized in the treatment of patients who have inadvertently received an overdose of methotrexate or other comparable medications. This medication works by protecting healthy cells from the effects of methotrexate or similar medications while allowing methotrexate to enter and kill cancer cells.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication orally, with or without food, according to the instructions provided by your physician, generally every six hours or once a day.
The appropriate dosage is contingent on your medical condition and your response to therapy.
Consistent use of this medication is crucial for maximum therapeutic benefit. To facilitate adherence, take it at the same time(s) every day.
Inform your doctor if you experience nausea or vomiting, which may impede oral administration. In such cases, switching to the injectable form of this medication may be necessary.
Side Effects
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- diarrhea
- rash
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Caution
Prior to initiating leucovorin therapy, inform your physician or pharmacist of any hypersensitivity to leucovorin, levoleucovorin, folic acid or folinic acid, or other allergies. The presence of inert ingredients in this product may lead to allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to administering this medication, please inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have certain anemias related to vitamin B12 deficiency.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if absolutely necessary. Consult with your physician regarding the potential risks and benefits.
It is uncertain whether this medication is excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Leucovorin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Leucovorin tablet:
- 5mg
FAQ
Why is it important to not miss Leucovorin doses?
Severe immunosuppression and toxicity can occur if doses are missed or not given on time.
Is Leucovorin considered chemo?
Leucovorin is not a chemotherapy drug itself, however it is used in addition to these chemotherapy drugs to enhance anti-cancer effects or to help prevent or lessen side effects.
Resources
- https://voice.ons.org/news-and-views/outpatient-oncology-drug-series-dont-forget-leucovorin-calcium-the-superhero#:~:text=Doses%20of%20leucovorin%20rescue%20will,or%20not%20given%20on%20time
- https://chemocare.com/chemotherapy/drug-info/leucovorin.aspx#:~:text=Leucovorin%20is%20not%20a%20chemotherapy,side%20effects%20(with%20methotrexate)
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/leucovorin-oral-route-intravenous-route-injection-route/side-effects/drg-20064503
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682336.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1498/leucovorin-calcium-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/leucovorin.html
