Leucovorin (Systemic)

Brand Names : Wellcovorin, citrovorum factor, folinic acid

Category

• Antianemic
• Antidote, to folic acid antagonists
• Antineoplastic adjunct

Description

Leucovorin (loo-koe-VOR-in) is used as an antidote to the harmful effects of methotrexate (a cancer medicine) that is given in high doses. It is used also to prevent or treat certain kinds of anemia. Leucovorin acts the same way in the body as folic acid, which may be low in these patients.

Leucovorin is also used along with fluorouracil (a cancer medicine) to treat cancer of the colon (bowel).

Leucovorin is available only with a prescription and is to be given only by or under the supervision of your doctor. It is available in the following dosage forms:

Oral
• Tablets (U.S. and Canada)

Parenteral
• Injection (U.S. and Canada)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Wellcovorin

Generic name product may be available in the U.S. and Canada.

Other commonly used names are citrovorum factor and folinic acid .