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Vitamins (VYE-ta-mins) are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Novo-Folacid (FOE-lik AS-id) (vitamin B 9) is necessary for strong blood. Lack of Novo-Folacid may lead to anemia (weak blood). Your health care professional may treat this by prescribing Novo-Folacid for you. Some conditions may increase your need for Novo-Folacid. These include: Alcoholism Anemia, hemolytic Diarrhea (continuing) Fever (prolonged) Hemodialysis Illness (prolonged) Intestinal diseases Liver disease Stress (continuing) Surgical removal of stomach In addition, infants smaller than normal, breast-fed infants, or those receiving unfortified formulas (such as evaporated milk or goat's milk) may need additional Novo-Folacid. Increased need for Novo-Folacid should be determined by your health care professional. Some studies have found that Novo-Folacid taken by women before they become pregnant and during early pregnancy may reduce the chances of certain birth defects (neural tube defects). Claims that Novo-Folacid and other B vitamins are effective for preventing mental problems have not been proven. Many of these treatments involve large and expensive amounts of vitamins. Injectable Novo-Folacid is given by or under the direction of your health care professional. Another form of Novo-Folacid is available without a prescription. Brand names: - Apo-Folic - Folic Acid - Folvite - Novo-Folacid |