What Is Folinic Acid?
Folinic acid is more commonly known as 5-formyl tetrahydrofolic acid or leucovorin. Folinic acid is one of the naturally occurring forms of B-vitamin folate, a group of substances that are structurally related to and have similar biological activity as folic acid.
Folinic acid can be used to treat folate deficiency. It’s used in medication to decrease the toxic effects of methotrexate and pyrimethamine and is also used in combination with 5-fluorouracil to treat colorectal cancer.
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Folinic Acid, Naturally Occurring
Folinic acid is also known as 5-formyl tetrahydrofolic acid or leucovorin. It is practically insoluble in water and acidic. (source 🗗)
Folinic acid is one of the main naturally occurring forms of folic acid in foods. (source 🗗)
Not The Same As Folic Acid
Folic acid and folinic acid (5-formyl tetrahydrofolic acid) are often considered the same, but they are not the same. Folic acid is a synthetic, oxidized, and water-soluble form of folate that does not exist in nature. Folinic acid exists naturally and is biologically active. (source 🗗)
Folinic Acid In Supplements And Food
Folinic acid is often used in dietary supplements to vitamin B9. It’s also found in foods like leafy green vegetables, like lettuce. (source 🗗)