Product Introduction:
Leucorin 15mg Tablets are prescribed primarily as a chemoprotective agent in cancer patients undergoing high-dose methotrexate therapy. It is also used to treat folic acid deficiency, anemia, and as an adjunct in colorectal cancer treatment.
Uses of Leucorin 15mg
Leucorin 15mg is commonly used for:
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Methotrexate Rescue Therapy – Reduces toxicity after high-dose methotrexate chemotherapy.
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Colorectal Cancer Treatment (with Fluorouracil, 5-FU) – Enhances the effectiveness of fluorouracil in cancer therapy.
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Megaloblastic Anemia Due to Folic Acid Deficiency.
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Overdose Treatment for Methotrexate or Other Folate Antagonists (Trimethoprim, Pyrimethamine).
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Prevention of Neural Tube Defects in Pregnant Women with Folate Deficiency.
How Leucorin 15mg Works (Mechanism of Action):
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Calcium Folinate is a biologically active form of folic acid.
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It bypasses folate metabolism blockades caused by methotrexate and restores normal DNA synthesis in healthy cells.
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In cancer therapy, it enhances the cytotoxic effects of fluorouracil (5-FU) by stabilizing its binding to the enzyme thymidylate synthase, improving its anti-cancer effects.
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It prevents folate deficiency-related complications in anemic and malnourished patients.
Dosage of Leucorin 15mg
Typical Recommended Dose:
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Methotrexate Rescue Therapy: 10–25 mg every 6 hours for 72 hours after high-dose methotrexate.
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Colorectal Cancer (with 5-FU): 200 mg/m² IV, followed by 5-FU administration.
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Folate Deficiency or Anemia: 1–5 mg daily (as per doctor’s advice).
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Methotrexate Overdose: 15 mg every 6 hours until methotrexate levels are safe.
⚠️ Dosing may vary based on individual patient needs. Always follow the doctor’s prescription.
Method of Administration (How to Take It)
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Take Leucorin 15mg orally, with or without food.
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For cancer therapy, it is usually administered in cycles under medical supervision.
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Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
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If given as part of chemotherapy, ensure proper timing with methotrexate or fluorouracil.
Side Effects of Leucorin 15mg
Common Side Effects:
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Nausea and vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Loss of appetite
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Fatigue
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Skin rash
Severe Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help):
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Allergic Reactions: Swelling, rash, difficulty breathing
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Severe Diarrhea and Dehydration (with 5-FU therapy)
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Neurological Effects: Confusion, agitation, seizures (in high doses)
⚠️ Patients receiving fluorouracil should be closely monitored for gastrointestinal and hematologic toxicity.
Precautions Before Taking Leucorin 15mg
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Kidney or Liver Disease: Dose adjustments may be required.
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Epilepsy: Can interfere with anti-seizure medications.
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Generally safe, but consult a doctor.
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Patients with Pernicious Anemia or Vitamin B12 Deficiency: May mask symptoms and delay proper treatment.
Drug Interactions (Medications That May Interact)
Leucorin 15mg may interact with:
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Methotrexate & Other Folate Antagonists (Pemetrexed, Trimethoprim, Pyrimethamine): Used to reduce toxicity.
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Fluorouracil (5-FU): Enhances its anti-cancer effects.
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Anti-Seizure Medications (Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone): Reduces effectiveness, increasing seizure risk.
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Sulfonamides & Sulfamethoxazole: May interfere with folate metabolism.
⚠️ Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Allergy Warnings
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Do not take if allergic to folinic acid or any ingredients in the formulation.
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Signs of an allergic reaction:
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Skin rash, itching
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Difficulty breathing
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Swelling of the face or throat
🚨 Seek emergency medical help if allergic symptoms occur.
Storage Instructions
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Store at room temperature (15°C - 30°C).
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Keep in a dry place, away from moisture.
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Protect from direct sunlight.
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Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of Overdose:
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Neurological toxicity (confusion, agitation, seizures)
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Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
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Electrolyte imbalances
What to Do in Case of Overdose?
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Seek immediate medical attention.
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Supportive care and symptomatic treatment are required.
Missed Dose Instructions
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible.
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If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.
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Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.