Folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) during pregnancy. The dosage recommendations vary based on individual risk factors.
Usual Dosage (0.4 mg (400 µg) daily)
Recommended for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy for women without specific risk factors for NTDs.
Higher Dosage (5 mg daily for the first 12 weeks)
1. Diabetes Mellitus (DM): Women with pre-existing diabetes are at a higher risk for NTDs.
2. BMI > 30: Obesity increases the risk of NTDs.
3. Antiepileptic Medications: These medications can interfere with folic acid metabolism.
4. Family History of NTDs: A personal or family history increases the risk.
5. Previous Pregnancy with NTD: Women who have had a previous pregnancy affected by NTDs require a higher dosage.
Higher Dosage (5 mg daily for the entire pregnancy)
i. Thalassemia or Thalassemia Trait: Genetic conditions that require higher folic acid supplementation.
ii. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD): Increased risk of complications necessitates a higher dose throughout pregnancy.
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