Leucovorin is a drug that is commonly used in the treatment of anemia and after high doses of methotrexate, which is a drug that can be used in chemotherapy. Understand what Methotrexate is for.
This drug is produced by Whyeth Lab and should be used under medical supervision.
When to take
The use of leucovorin is indicated to help treat colorectal cancer, to treat megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency, sarcoma, after high doses of methotrexate or folic acid and to prevent toxic effects of some antibiotics.
The use of this medicine should be done according to medical advice.
How to use
The method of use varies according to the reason the doctor has indicated its use, and may be:
- In case of anemia: 1mg per day;
- In case of overdose of folic acid: 2 to 15mg per day;
- In case of colorectal cancer: 20mg / m2 along with 5-fluorouracil for 5 days.
Contraindications
This medicine is contraindicated for pregnant women and in the case of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, also called pernicious anemia. Understand pernicious anemia.
Adverse effects
Leucovorin can cause mild reactions, which are more common, such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and fatigue. The most serious and less frequent adverse effects are allergy, urticaria and anaphylactic shock. Learn why anaphylactic shock occurs and how to treat it.
