Levomefolic acid

Levomefolic acid (also known as L-methylfolate, 5-MTHF, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, and 5-MTHF) is the primary biologically active form of folate in the body. It is involved in many important biochemical reactions, including the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins, as well as the metabolism of amino acids and homocysteine.

Biochemistry

Levomefolic acid is the metabolite of folate that is involved in the one-carbon cycle, which is responsible for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, the building blocks of DNA and RNA. It is also involved in the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine, an essential amino acid.

Clinical significance

Levomefolic acid is used in the treatment of hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition characterized by high levels of homocysteine in the blood. It is also used as a supplement in patients with folate deficiency and in pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus.

Pharmacology

Levomefolic acid is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is not affected by food. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.

Side effects

Side effects of levomefolic acid are rare and generally mild. They may include allergic reactions, nausea, and bloating.

See also

• Folate
• Homocysteine
• Hyperhomocysteinemia
• Folate deficiency
• Neural tube defect

References

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