Get Prescription Folic Acid

How do I know if folic acid is right for me? Folic acid may be right for you if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or at risk of deficiency due to diet, health conditions, or certain medications. It’s especially important for fetal development, red blood cell production, and overall cell health.

If you have conditions like anemia, digestive disorders (such as celiac or Crohn’s disease), or take medications that lower folate levels, a healthcare provider may recommend supplementation. The best way to know for sure is to talk to your LifeMD-affiliated provider, who can assess your needs based on your health history and lifestyle.

The main difference between folic acid and folate is their source and how the body processes them.

• Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9, found in foods like leafy greens, beans, and citrus fruits. The body easily converts it into its active form for use.
• Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, used in supplements and fortified foods. It requires additional conversion in the body, but it’s more stable and better absorbed than folate from food.

Both support cell growth, red blood cell production, and fetal development, but some people may have difficulty fully converting folic acid, making natural folate or methylfolate supplements a better option for them.

Yes, folic acid is a vitamin – it’s the synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9), which is essential for cell growth, DNA production, and red blood cell formation. Folate is naturally found in foods like leafy greens, beans, and citrus fruits, while folic acid is added to fortified foods and supplements to help prevent deficiencies.

The main difference between prescriptions folic acid and OTC folic acid is the dosage and intended use:

• OTC folic acid is typically available in lower doses, such as 400 mcg to 800 mcg, which is the recommended daily amount for most people, including pregnant women. It’s widely used as a dietary supplement and found in prenatal vitamins.
• Prescription folic acid is usually available in higher doses, such as 1 mg (1,000 mcg) or more. Healthcare providers prescribe it for conditions like folate deficiency anemia, malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac or Crohn’s disease), or to prevent complications in high-risk pregnancies.

The best time to take folic acid is at the same time each day, either in the morning or with a meal to help with absorption and consistency. If you’re pregnant or taking it as part of a prenatal vitamin, morning is often recommended to establish a routine.

Folic acid can be taken with or without food, but if it upsets your stomach, taking it with a meal may help.

Yes, it’s generally recommended to take folic acid when you're pregnant, or trying to conceive, to support healthy fetal development. The typical recommendation is to start taking folic acid at least one month before conception and continue through the first trimester of pregnancy, though some doctors may suggest continuing it throughout the pregnancy.

Yes, men can take folic acid, and it may offer some health benefits. While folic acid is primarily recommended for women, especially during pregnancy, men can benefit from it too.

Some research suggests that folic acid might improve sperm quality and fertility in men. It may also support heart health by helping to lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

If you're considering taking folic acid as a man, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure it's right for your specific health needs.

Folic acid may help with hair health, but it's not a guaranteed solution for hair loss. Since folic acid plays a role in cell growth and repair, including the cells in your hair follicles, getting enough of it could potentially help support healthy hair growth. A deficiency in folate may lead to hair thinning or loss, so ensuring you have adequate folic acid levels might help prevent this issue.

However, if you're experiencing significant hair loss, it could be due to other factors like hormonal imbalances, stress, or genetics.

Folic acid supplementation is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects, including:

• Stomach upset or discomfort
• Bloating or gas
• Nausea or a mild feeling of sickness
• Sleep disturbances or irritability (though rare)

In rare cases, taking very high doses of folic acid can cause more serious side effects, such as interfering with the absorption of other vitamins or masking a vitamin B12 deficiency. If you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms, it’s a good idea to check with your LifeMD-affiliated healthcare provider.

LifeMD offers patients access to licensed healthcare providers who can offer guidance on healthcare concerns. Through our virtual platform, you can schedule same-day appointments and meet with a medical professional from the comfort of your home.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe you a medication if appropriate, and order it to your local pharmacy for your convenience. Skip the waiting room with LifeMD, make an appointment today to get started.