Metafolin

Solgar Methylfolate (Metafolin®) 400 µg is available in the form of vegetable tablets for oral administration, each tablet containing folate (in the form of calcium L-methylfolate – Metafolin®) – 400 µg.

The tablets are Kosher and Vegan certified and do not contain gluten, lactose, yeast, wheat, soy, artificial sweeteners or colourings. 

Metafolin Solgar is indicated in the following situations:

• Supporting homocysteine metabolism – contributes to its conversion into methionine, reducing the cardiovascular risk associated with hyperhomocysteinemia;
• Maintaining mental health – by participating in the synthesis of neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline), it contributes to emotional and cognitive balance;
• Reducing fatigue and exhaustion – due to its role in cellular energy metabolism and erythrocyte synthesis;
• Supporting haematopoiesis – by being involved in the normal production of red blood cells;
• Prevention of neural tube defects – during the periconceptional period, folate supplementation significantly reduces the risk of congenital malformations;
• Supports immune function and normal cell division, important in tissue regeneration and growth processes.

The recommended dose for adults is one tablet (400 µg of folate) per day, preferably taken with a glass of water during a meal.

For women of childbearing age, clinical guidelines recommend daily supplementation with 400 µg of folate (in the form of folic acid or L-methylfolate) at least one month before conception and up to three months after, to ensure normal development of the foetus's nervous system.

The administration of Metafolin folic acid is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Known hypersensitivity to folate or any of the product's excipients;
• In the case of untreated vitamin B12 deficiency, folate supplementation (including L-methylfolate) should only be carried out under medical supervision to prevent the progression of neuropathy.

Folate in the form of Metafolin is the active form of folate, making it suitable for people with the MTHFR gene mutation, who cannot convert folic acid into its active form.

It is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.

Metafolin is generally very well tolerated, with adverse reactions being rare and mild. In isolated cases, the following may occur:

• gastrointestinal discomfort (bloating, mild nausea);
• allergic skin reactions to excipients;
• irritability or insomnia, in case of excessive doses.

These symptoms usually disappear when administration is discontinued or the dose is adjusted.

L Metafolin may interact with certain medicines:

• Antiepileptics (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproate) – may reduce folate levels;
• Methotrexate, trimethoprim, sulfasalazine.

There are no significant interactions with food, but absorption is optimal when the product is taken with meals.

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, and excess amounts are usually eliminated by the kidneys. However, very high doses (over 1 mg/day) may mask a vitamin B12 deficiency or cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances. In case of accidental administration of a high dose, medical monitoring and adequate hydration are recommended.

The product should be stored at room temperature (15–30°C) in its original packaging, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of the reach and sight of small children. Best consumed by the date indicated on the packaging.

• PubMed, The concept of folic acid in health and disease
• WebMD, Folic acid
• NIH, Folate
• Healthline, Folic Acid