Health Information
Leucovorin
How It Works
Leucovorin is a derivative of folic acid. Leucovorin works differently depending on whether it is used with Reference methotrexate (MTX) or Reference fluorouracil (5-FU).
- Methotrexate: Leucovorin is given to "rescue" the gastrointestinal lining and bone marrow cells from MTX toxicity. Most of the complications and side effects of methotrexate can be either prevented or treated by using leucovorin, which is usually given 24 hours after methotrexate.
- Fluorouracil: Leucovorin increases the effectiveness of 5-FU, increasing the anticancer effect.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: August 27, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Kenneth Bark, MD - Surgery, Colon and Rectal |
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