Deplin (L-Methylfolate Calcium)

What is Deplin?

Deplin is a drug containing the active ingredient I-methylfolate. It is a naturally occurring form of Vitamin B that helps in the production of red blood cells in the body.

What is Deplin used for?

Deplin is prescribed to the patients who suffer from conditions resulting from folic acid or Vitamin B deficiency. It is given in combination with other drugs to treat such deficiency conditions.

How does Deplin work?

Deplin works by performing the functions of folic acid in blood, thereby, providing the body with foliates when the body is not able to produce them on its own.

How to use Deplin

It is advised to comply with the instructions of your physician as far as the dosage of Deplin is concerned.

Make sure that you do not use the medicine more or less than the prescribed amount and time, as this may give rise to side effects.

The drug’s brand and its intensity is decided by your physician after considering a number of medical factors, so it is highly recommended not to change the dosage without taking a suggestion from some medical expert.

As Deplin is not prescribed alone, make sure you take all the other prescribed medications alongside. For best results, take Deplin regularly and try not to miss any dose or consume an overdose.

Deplin warnings and precautions

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Deplin, do not use this drug. In case you are pregnant or planning to conceive, take it only if it is clearly precribed. Lactating mothers are also recommended not to breastfeed their babies.

Also, if you are on some dietary supplements or taking some other prescription or non prescription drugs, do not take the medicine without first consulting your physician.

Notify the doctor if you have ever had or are presently having vitamin B12 deficiency, a history of anemia, seizures, or bipolar disorders like manic depression.

It is also suggested not to consume alcohol along with Deplin as this may interfere with the mechanism of action of the drug inside the body.

What do I do if I have missed a Deplin dose?

If you have missed your Deplin dose, you should take it when you remember and skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Deplin overdose?

If you have taken a Deplin overdose you should talk to your doctor rather than trying antidotes on your own.

Deplin interactions

There have been reports of many drugs interacting with Deplin. Therefore, it is advisable that you inform your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use, especially if you are taking the following drugs:

1. Carbamazepine like Carbatrol
2. Lamotrigine or Lamictal
3. Birth control pills
4. Accutane
5. Non-steroidal  anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. ibuprofen like Motrin
6. Methylprednisolone or Medrol
7. Valproic acid valproate and
8. Pyrimethamine Daraprim

Deplin side effects

Some side effects of Deplin demand immediate medical attention. These are the symptoms of severe allergic reactions like hives, swelling of face and tongue, skin rashes and difficulty in breathing.

Other problems that have been commonly linked with Deplin are nausea, bloating, gas, tastelessness or bitter taste of mouth, and loss of appetite. These side effects are not persistent but if they stay for a longer period of time and become bothersome, it is recommended that you should contact your doctor.