Vitamins
Folic Acid (Folate)
Also known as: folate, vitamin B9, folacin, 5-MTHF, methylfolate, L-methylfolate
A B vitamin required for DNA synthesis and preventing neural-tube defects. Oral folate is the proven form; extra IV folate for fertility or energy is unproven.
Medically reviewed by Akash Bhagat, DO, FACEP
What the evidence supports
| Use | Evidence |
|---|---|
| Preventing neural-tube defects (oral folic acid before and during early pregnancy) | Established |
| Treating folate-deficiency anemia | Established |
| IV fertility or energy drips | Unproven |
Common side effects
- Flushing (uncommon)
- Taste changes
- Nausea
Who should be cautious or avoid this
- Can mask vitamin B12 deficiency — B12 should be checked if anemia is present
- People on methotrexate or certain antifolate drugs
- High-dose folic acid is not a fertility treatment on its own
What it is
Folate (vitamin B9) is required to make DNA and to convert homocysteine to methionine. Folic acid is the synthetic form in most supplements and fortified foods; 5-MTHF (methylfolate) is another supplemental form. Clinics may list either on a fertility or “wellness” bag.
Why it’s used in IV therapy
Added to pregnancy-adjacent and energy formulas, and talked up for fertility and mood.
What the evidence says
Oral folic acid before conception and in early pregnancy is established prevention of neural-tube defects. Folate-deficiency anemia is treated with oral (sometimes higher-dose) folate. Putting folate in an IV does not have trial evidence as a fertility intervention or energy boost. If the goal is pregnancy preparation, a standard prenatal vitamin is the evidence-based tool.
Side effects and cautions
Usual doses are well tolerated. Extra folic acid can correct the anemia of B12 deficiency while the nerve damage continues — that’s why unexplained anemia needs a B12 check, not just more folate.