What is Leucovorin Calcium prescribed for?

Thrombocytopenia is when you don’t have enough platelets, which is made by bone marrow; so you can get this disease if your body doesn’t make enough of them or if it destroys them faster than it can replace them. Platelets are cells in your blood that stick together to help it clot. At times the condition doesn’t cause any problems at all, unless you have symptoms like too much bleeding, then this medication can help.

Neutropenia however, is when people have an unusually low amount of cells called neutrophils. And neutrophils are a type of a white blood cell.  Your bone marrow is what creates these cells. They travel along in your bloodstream and move to areas of infection where they ingest and then neutralize the offending bacteria. It doesn’t cause any symptoms; most of the time people learn they have Neutropenia when having a blood test completely unrelated to this disease.

Anemia is defined as a low number of red blood cells. In blood tests, anemia is reported as a low hemoglobin or hematocrit. Hemoglobin is the main protein in red blood cells. It carries oxygen, and delivers it throughout your body. If you have anemia, your levels in haemoglobin will be low as well. And if it is too low, your tissues and organs may not get enough exygen.

This medication is to treat and prevent are small variety of serious blood cell disorders, such as thrombocytopenia, neutroprnia, trimethoprim, pyrimethamine, that are caused by certain drugs. Such as methotrexate, trimethoprim, and primethamine which are all folic acid antagonists.

Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, either with or without food.  It is usually taken every 6 hours, or once a day, or as directed by your doctor.

Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. As well as any other medications you may be currently taking. Doses above 25 milligrams are not recommended for this medication.

For the best result, take this medication at the same time every day. Take this medication exactly as prescribed to you by your doctor. Do not skip doses. And do not take more or less of the medication then what has been prescribed to you.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Leucovorin Calcium; or to levoleucovorin; or to folic acid or folinic acid; or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform them you have had the following; certain anemias (due to vitamin B12 deficiency).

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.