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Brand: Wellcovorin, Leucovorin Calcium Injection
Leucovorin calcium is a reduced form of folic acid used to counteract the effects of folic acid antagonists, such as methotrexate, and to treat megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency. It is a crucial rescue medication in high-dose methotrexate chemotherapy regimens, helping to protect healthy cells from the toxic effects of methotrexate while allowing the drug to target cancer cells. It belongs to the class of medications known as folate analog metabolic rescue agents.
Used to counteract the effects of methotrexate, treat megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency, and occasionally in combination with 5-fluorouracil for colorectal cancer.
Outcome:
Reduced methotrexate efficacy if given prematurely
Mechanism:
Leucovorin can interfere with methotrexate's cellular uptake.
Outcome:
Reduced leucovorin absorption
Mechanism:
Competition for absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.
Outcome:
May slightly reduce folate absorption
Mechanism:
Components in coffee may bind to folate.
Most likely new formulation: Improved delivery systems for enhanced bioavailability (Year: 2026, 60% confidence)
Based on historical usage patterns and current research trends, the likelihood of leucovorin's regulatory status changing within the next 5 years is less than 1%.
Antidote, Vitamin
Folic Acid Analog