Revised: 01 Feb 2007
Other names: calcium folinate, citrovorum factor, folinic acid, Lederle Leucovorin®, 5-formyl tetrahydrofolate
- Leucovorin (loo-koe-VOR-in) is a drug that is used to “rescue” normal cells (but not cancer cells) from the effects of an anti-cancer drug called methotrexate. This helps prevent harmful side effects. It is a tablet that you take by mouth.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had an unusual or allergic reaction to leucovorin before taking leucovorin.
- It is important to take leucovorin exactly as directed by your doctor. Make sure you understand the directions.
- You may take leucovorin with food or on an empty stomach.
- If you vomit the dose of leucovorin within 30 minutes of taking, take another dose immediately and call your cancer doctor.
- If you miss a dose of leucovorin, take it as soon as you can and call your cancer doctor.
- Other drugs may interact with leucovorin. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other drugs as you may need extra blood tests or your dose may need to be changed. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking any new drugs.
- The drinking of alcohol (in small amounts) does not appear to affect the safety or usefulness of leucovorin.
- Store leucovorin tablets out of the reach of children, at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.
Side effects are listed in the following table in the order in which they may occur. Tips to
help manage the side effects are included.
SIDE EFFECTS |
MANAGEMENT |
|
Nausea does not occur with leucovorin. |
|
|
Hair loss does not occur with leucovorin. |
|
CALL YOUR DOCTOR OR GET EMERGENCY HELP IMMEDIATELY IF YOU HAVE:
- Signs of an allergic reaction (rare) soon after a treatment including dizziness, fast heart beat, face swelling, or breathing problems.
- Seizures or loss of consciousness.
- Missed a dose of leucovorin.
- Vomited a dose of leucovorin.
CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CONTINUE OR BOTHER YOU:
REPORT ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS TO YOUR DOCTOR