Leucovorin Calcium 15mg Injection

About

Leucovorin Calcium is a crucial pharmaceutical agent, functioning as a formyl derivative of tetrahydrofolic acid, which represents a metabolically active form of folic acid. Unlike dietary folate, leucovorin does not necessitate reduction by dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme frequently targeted and inhibited by various chemotherapeutic agents, most notably methotrexate. Its primary clinical application is as a "rescue" therapy, specifically designed to mitigate and counteract the severe toxic effects associated with folic acid antagonists, particularly following high-dose methotrexate administration. By supplying a readily available source of reduced folates, leucovorin ensures the continuation of essential cellular processes like DNA synthesis and repair, thereby protecting healthy cells from damage. Furthermore, it plays a significant role in oncology by enhancing the cytotoxic efficacy of fluorouracil in the treatment of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, by stabilizing the binding of fluorouracil metabolites to thymidylate synthase.

Uses

• To diminish the toxicity and counteract the effects of impaired methotrexate elimination.
• To treat megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency when oral therapy is not feasible.
• In combination with fluorouracil to improve response rates in colorectal cancer.
• As an antidote for other folate antagonists like pyrimethamine or trimethoprim.

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously or intramuscularly by a healthcare professional. Dosage and schedule are highly individualized based on the specific indication and patient's condition.

Benefits

• Reduces severe side effects of methotrexate.
• Improves efficacy of fluorouracil in cancer therapy.
• Effective in treating certain types of anemia.
• Provides essential folate for cellular processes.
• Crucial in high-dose chemotherapy regimens.
• Offers a life-saving rescue in cases of folate antagonist overdose.

Side Effects

• Allergic reactions (rare, but can be severe)
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomatitis (when used with fluorouracil)
• Seizures (rare, high doses)
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Increased frequency of fluorouracil toxicity
• Rash
• Anaphylaxis (very rare)
• Thrombophlebitis at injection site

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - No specific interaction with alcohol is known, but patients undergoing chemotherapy should generally limit or avoid alcohol.
• Pregnancy - Use during pregnancy should only occur if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, especially when used with other cytotoxic agents. Consult a physician.
• Breastfeeding - It is unknown if leucovorin is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised, and breastfeeding may need to be temporarily discontinued.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with severe liver impairment, especially when used in conjunction with other hepatotoxic drugs.
• Kidney - Caution is advised in patients with kidney impairment, particularly when used with methotrexate, as renal function is critical for methotrexate elimination.
• Lung - No specific contraindications or significant concerns regarding lung conditions are typically noted for leucovorin calcium.

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