Biovorin

After chemotherapy with methotrexate (“rescue” treatment): Some cancer drugs, like methotrexate, block folic acid and can harm healthy cells. Biovorin helps “rescue” normal cells by giving them a usable form of folate.

To make some cancer treatments work better: When given with the drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), Biovorin can help the medicine work more effectively against bowel and other cancers.

To treat or prevent folate deficiency: Doctors sometimes use Biovorin if someone can’t absorb folic acid properly or has anemia linked to low folate.

To reduce side effects from other medicines: It may also help counteract the toxic effects of drugs such as trimethoprim or pyrimethamine.

Some public figures, including U.S. President Donald Trump, have claimed leucovorin could help with autism. However, medical experts say there’s no solid scientific proof that it works for autism. A few small studies have looked at this idea, but results are uncertain and it is not an approved treatment for autism.

The exact dose and schedule depend on why it’s being prescribed.

After methotrexate: about 10–15 mg every 6 hours for a series of doses, starting a day after chemotherapy.

With 5-FU (for bowel cancer): given by injection at specific doses planned by the oncology team.

For folate deficiency: often one 5–15 mg tablet daily.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. The timing of each dose is very important, especially if you are receiving chemotherapy.

Most people tolerate Biovorin well, but some may notice:

• Nausea, vomiting, or mild stomach upset
• Skin rash or itching

Rare allergic reactions:

• Fever or soreness at the injection site (if injected)

In people with epilepsy, leucovorin may slightly reduce the effect of anti-seizure medicine.

Seek medical advice if you notice severe diarrhea, mouth sores, breathing problems, or any unusual reaction.

Don’t use Biovorin instead of vitamin B12 for pernicious anemia — it can hide symptoms while nerve damage continues.

Tell your doctor if you have epilepsy or take seizure medicines.

When used with 5-FU, it can make side effects like mouth ulcers or diarrhea stronger — report these promptly.

Always keep chemotherapy appointments and follow the schedule exactly.