FA-8
FA-8 is the brand name for folic acid capsules. Doctors can prescribe folic acid for people who have certain medical conditions. As with other medications, learning as much as possible about FA-8 is important for anyone who is taking this medication.
Uses
FA-8 treats a condition called megoblastic anemia. Unlike other forms of anemia, this one typically is one that people have caused through various actions. Megoblastic anemia is common among alcoholics and people who have a continually poor diet. Many pregnant women also develop the condition because they need to get more folic acid than most people to sustain the fetus and the mother’s needs.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is also known as B-9, and it is often included in B-complex pills without most people knowing. Folate is the name for folic acid that occurs naturally in foods; folic acid refers to the synthetic version available in capsules such as FA-8. Folic acid has a number of purposes for the body, and doctors may suggest FA-8 for patients they think are at risk of a deficiency.
Reasons for Taking FA-8
Reproductive Function
Women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant need adequate levels of folic acid in their bodies because folic acid in adequate doses can help prevent a number of birth defects related to the proper development of the spinal cord. Current medical information also shows that proper folic acid levels are required for both men and women who are trying to reproduce. Women can use FA-8 to help eggs mature while men need the medication for the creation of sperm.
Heart Disease Risk
Researchers also believe folic acid can help prevent some types of heart disease. FA-8 may be prescribed to people at risk of heart disease because it will decrease the amount of a specific amino acid in the body. Health care research continues to explore this link between folic acid and heart attacks, but most medical information available suggests that high levels of homocysteine can increase clogging of the arteries.
Mental Health
Some health care research shows a connection between folic acid levels and depression. People who do not have enough folic acid in their systems may find that taking FA-8 can help their brain function and improve their moods without psychiatric medications. Research in this area is on-going.
Stroke Prevention
This medication is not approved as a treatment for stroke prevention, but many doctors ask their patients to be sure they get enough folic acid. For some patients, FA-8 may be necessary to make sure they are getting enough. In general, doctors know that high blood pressure contributes to stroke risk, and enough folic acid can reduce this risk. Medical reasoning would suggest, then, that folic acid – and by extension FA-8 – would be beneficial to people at risk for a stroke.
Side Effects
Because FA-8 is a synthetic version of a nutrient the body needs and gets in some quantity through consumption, there are few side effects of taking this drug. Allergic reactions also are very uncommon, and the ones that do occur typically do so because of something in the capsule itself besides the medication. At any rate, any dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath could signal an allergic reaction and should be reported to a doctor immediately. In cases when a doctor is not available, going to an emergency room may be the best way to ensure your health.
Warnings for Your Doctor
Giving complete medical information to your doctor is important in making sure you have quality health care. Taking FA-8 is no exception. Your doctor should know before you take this medication if you have a history of vitamin B deficiency. If you do, then it’s possible your doctor may need to consider other drugs or alter the dosage for you. Also let your doctor know about all other medications, both allopathic and naturopathic, you are taking. FA-8 interacts with several other drugs, including many barbiturates, hydantoins, and fluorourcil.
Though FA-8 seems harmless compared to other medications, all patients should watch out for their health when taking this medication. Let doctors know of any problems you encounter and take FA-8 only as prescribed. Don’t double-dose; if you have missed a dose, simply let it go. Be sure to let your health care provider know about any changes in your diet or lifestyle as well because these changes could have an effect on your body’s need for FA-8.
Posted by Fei Lim
