Leucovorin (CHLORAMBUCIL)

Leucovorin Information

Leucovorin is a form of folic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance that is imperative for the formation of red and white blood cells.

Leucovorin is available in two forms. It is available as a tablet for oral administration and as a solution for intravenous or intramuscular injection. A healthcare provider should do injections.

Leucovorin Indications

Leucovorin is primarily used in lessening the side effects of large doses of medications such as the following:

Methotrexate or Rheumatrex
Pyrimethamine or Daraprim
Trimethoprim or Trimpex

Leucovorin is also used in treating anemia caused by folic acid deficiency. Leucovorin may also be used with 5-fluorouracil, commonly known as Adrucil, in the painkilling treatment of patients suffering from advanced colorectal cancer.

Leucovorin can also be used for purposes other than those mentioned here in this guide.

Leucovorin Warnings

Leucovorin may not be advisable if you have any of the following:

Anemia caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12
A history of seizures or central nervous system problems that can increase the risk of seizures
Mouth sores such as Stomatitis or mucositis
Vomiting or diarrhea

Your doctor may not allow you to take Leucovorin, may adjust your dosage or monitor you closely during treatment.

Leucovorin belongs to the FDA pregnancy category C, which means that it is not known whether Leucovorin will be harmful or can cause defects to an unborn baby. Do not take Leucovorin without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant during the duration of the treatment.

It is also not known if Leucovorin passes into breast milk. Do not take Leucovorin without your doctor’s approval if you are nursing a baby.

Leucovorin Intake Guidelines

Leucovorin should be used exactly as directed by your doctor. If there are matters that you do not understand, refer to your pharmacist, nurse or physician and ask him or her to explain those matters to you.

Oral forms of Leucovorin should be taken in with 8 ounces or one full glass of water. A dose of Leucovorin that is larger than 25 mg should not be taken in by mouth unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Leucovorin should be taken only under the supervision of your doctor.

Leucovorin Dosage

Dosage of Leucovorin should be obtained from your doctor. Dosage may vary from person to person with regards to a variety of factors such as age, severity of condition and others. Do not take in more or less of Leucovorin so as not to alter its effects and to prevent overdose.

Leucovorin Overdose

The symptoms of overdose of Leucovorin are not known as of the present. If overdose is suspected, however, seek immediate medical attention or call poison control. Inform your doctor afterwards.

Leucovorin Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Leucovorin, whether oral or inject able form, inform you doctor at the soonest possible time.

Leucovorin Side Effects

Leucovorin may have any of the following serious side effects and allergic reactions:

Difficulty breathing
Closing of the throat
Swelling of the lips, face, or tongue
Hives
Vomiting, diarrhea, or sores in the mouth or throat
Fainting
Seizures

No other side effects due to taking Leucovorin have been reported. However, inform your doctor if you experience anything unusual while or after taking Leucovorin.

Leucovorin Drug Reactions

Leucovorin may react with the following drugs:

Phenytoin such as Dilantin or Phenytek
Fosphenytoin such as Cerebyx
Ethotoin such as Peganone
Phenobarbital such as Luminal
Primidone such as Mysoline

Other drugs my also interact with Leucovorin. Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications other than Leucovorin such as vitamins, minerals, and even herbal products.