Question About FolicAcid | Arthritis Information

What is the difference between Rx folic acid 1mg and OTC folic acid 400 mcg?

For the last 2 years I have been filling a Rx of folic acid 1mg, 30 tablets for a copay......the other day I bought OTC folic acid 400mcg, 250 tablets for just a few dollars. It just makes more sence.........Are these two about the same?

Thanks!!

I don't know. Good Q.

I've read that OTC vitamins can vary in their quality because their are no standards that govern them. So maybe the prescription are better because they always are what they say they are.

My RD said I could either fill the prescription or take the equivalent of 1 mg with OTC, so when I took MTX, I chose OTC due to the cost. I took an 800 mcg pill along with my multi-vitamin that had 400 mcg. It was a little over the 1 mg, but doc said that was o.k.

I have read here, though, that some people find the prescription folic acid works better. I'd say try the OTC first if cost is a concern. If you find that it doesn't work as well, you can always go back to the rx one.

Edited to add... if you decide to take the OTC, make sure you get the 1 mg equivalent. That's the same as 1,000 micrograms.

kweenb2008-11-23 11:47:54

Well.....silly me bought the 400mcg so I'll just take 3 of them.....that will be 1200mcg, just over 1mg....Thanks!! When I run out I'll get the 800mcg. Thanks!!

1000 mcg is 1mg, I have taken up to 5mg daily with no problem so you should be fine with 1.2 mg
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