Folate supplementation for nonpregnant people

See Clinical aspects of key water-soluble vitamins for the physiological function of folic acid, and the effects of and risk factors for folic acid deficiency.

Do not start supplementation until vitamin B₁₂ deficiency has been excluded—folate supplementation in patients with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency can lead to an increase in haemoglobin concentration while neurological damage progresses.

The dosage of folic acid should be individualised based on the indication for supplementation. For nonpregnant patients requiring folic acid due to dietary insufficiency, hazardous alcohol use or smoking, use:

For nonpregnant patients requiring folic acid due to an increased metabolic need (eg blood loss, gastrointestinal injury, burns), use:

Ongoing folate supplementation is recommended if the cause of malabsorption cannot be treated, requirements remain elevated or dietary intake remains inadequate. Measure folate blood concentration at baseline and after at least 2 to 4 weeks of supplementation. The bioavailability of folate from food is only 50%; the bioavailability from supplements is 100% if they are taken on an empty stomachNational Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Updated 22 September 2017.