Deplin (L-Methylfolate)

Deplin® is a trimonoamine modulator containing 7.5 mg of L-methylfolate, the only active form of folate that can cross the blood brain barrier.

L-methylfolate crosses the blood brain barrier and aids in the synthesis of new neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) associated with mood.

Deplin® works through a natural process in the brain to regulate all three monoamine neurotransmitters associated with mood by providing the increased dietary requirements for folate. L-methylfolate is needed by depressed patients with suboptimal folate to regulate the synthesis of monoamines (serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine) and known as a trimonoamine modulator (TMM). By managing trimonoamine neurotransmitter synthesis, L-methylfolate, when taken with antidepressants, improves benefits.

Deplin has been approved by the FDA as an adjunct -- in addition to -- medication for the treatment of depression and schizophrenia.

Before Taking This Medication

Some medications may interact with Deplin. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

• Cholestyramine, colchicine, colestipol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen), or sulfasalazine because they may decrease Deplin's effectiveness
  
• Fluorouracil because the risk of its side effects may be increased by Deplin
  
• Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), carbamazepine, hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), primidone, or valproic acid because they may decrease Deplin's effectiveness; their effectiveness may also be decreased by Deplin
  
• Pyrimethamine because its effectiveness may be decreased by Deplin
  

Side Effects

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).

Dosage

The usual adult dose is 7.5 to 15 mg daily with or without food or as directed under medical supervision.

Safety Information

Some brands of Deplin may contain tartrazine dye (FD&C Yellow No. 5). This may cause an allergic reaction in some patients. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to tartrazine, ask your pharmacist if your product has tartrazine in it.

Lab tests, including blood counts, may be performed while you use Deplin. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Deplin should be used with extreme caution in children; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

Pregnancy / breast-feeding: It is not known if Deplin can cause harm to the fetus. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Deplin while you are pregnant. Deplin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Deplin, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.