Ingredient

Folic Acid

Folic acid is an important vitamin that functions as vitamin B9 in the body.

All medicines
537
Single ingredient
22
Combination
515
Prescription medication
18
OTC medication
519

MFDS ingredient code M223289

What does it do?

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin belonging to the B vitamin group, primarily used for blood production and cell growth. It is mainly used to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus during pregnancy and to treat anemia.

Folic acid is involved in the synthesis of nucleic acids necessary for DNA and RNA production, helping cells to divide and grow normally. It also plays a critical role in red blood cell formation.

Commonly used for

Approved uses differ by product. Check each product's information for its actual use.

Good to know

Unlike other B vitamins, folic acid is especially important in the early stages of fetal development during pregnancy, and its deficiency increases the risk of anemia and neural tube defects. It is used in synthetic form in medications and has a high absorption rate in the body.

Medicines containing this ingredient

Even with the same ingredient, strength, dosage form and how it is taken can differ.

Category
Dosage form
Strength
Category

537 total

Even with the same ingredient, dosage and approved uses can differ by strength, dosage form and combined ingredients. Check each product's information before taking it.

Combined ingredients

Ingredients used together with this ingredient in combination products.

Questions about this ingredient

  • QIs it the same as anemia medication?

    Folic acid is also used to treat anemia caused by folate deficiency, but iron supplements are necessary for one of the common types of anemia, iron deficiency anemia, so they are not the same medication. If you have been diagnosed with anemia, please discuss with a doctor or pharmacist to determine the appropriate medication based on the cause.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QIs it too late to start taking it after confirming pregnancy?

    Folic acid is particularly important during the early stages of pregnancy when the fetal neural tube is forming, so it is generally recommended to start taking it from the planning stage of pregnancy. If you have already confirmed your pregnancy, it is advisable to start taking it now, but please discuss the dosage and duration with an obstetrician.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

For anything that needs medical judgment, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

This drug information is based on data provided by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist for accurate dosage, administration, and usage instructions.