Leucovorin Calcium (Calcium Folinate) is an antidote to the harmful effects of Methotrexate that is given in high doses. This medication is also used to prevent or treat certain kinds of anemia. Leucovorin belongs to the class of medications called folic acid analogs. This medication works by protecting healthy cells from the effects of Methotrexate or similar medications while allowing the medication to enter and kill cancer cells. Leucovorin acts the same way in the body as folic acid, which may be low in these patients.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the brand Leucovorin Calcium tablets from Canada manufactured by Pfizer. The generic Calcium Folinate tablets are available from New Zealand manufactured by a different manufacturer. The brand Leucovorin tablet is available in the strength of 5 mg tablets and the generic Calcium Folinate is available in the strength of 15 mg tablets.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. The common side effects of Leucovorin Calcium may include:
• Constipation;
• Diarrhea;
• Fatigue;
• Hair loss;
• Hives;
• Infection;
• Loss of appetite;
• Oral inflammation or cold sores;
• Nausea;
• Vomiting
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.
You should not take Leucovorin Calcium if you are allergic to Calcium Folinate or if you have any other allergies. Before you start taking this medication, talk to your doctor about your medical history and about all the medications you take including OTC and herbal medications. This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless it is clearly needed. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before breast-feeding. There may be a drug interaction between Leucovorin and other medications such as cotrimoxazole, ethosuximide, fluorouracil, methotrexate, phenytoin, primidone and trimethoprim, etc.