high-dose folic acid supplements might INCREASE cancer risk

January 2010

New evidence suggests that high-dose folic acid supplements might INCREASE cancer risk.

Several years ago, high-dose folic acid plus other B vitamins (Restolate, etc) were commonly used in patients with heart disease.

These vitamins lower homocysteine...but they DON'T improve cardiovascular outcomes. So this practice fell by the wayside.

Get concise advice on drug therapy, plus unlimited access to CE

Pharmacist's Letter Canada includes:

12 issues every year, with brief articles about new meds and hot topics
200+ CE courses, including the popular CE-in-the-Letter
Quick reference drug comparison charts
Access to the entire archive

Subscribe Today!

Already a subscriber? Log in

Volume pricing available. Get quote

Table of Contents

Cardiology The Ezetrol controversy and New Year's resolutions will spark new emphasis on treating lipids
Psychiatry increasing use of atypical antipsychotics in children
Respiratory & Allergy whether saline nasal irrigation or "neti pots" INCREASE the number of sinus infections
Women's Health oral bisphosphonates (Fosamax, etc) might decrease the risk of breast cancer
Women's Health more emphasis on avoiding valproate during pregnancy
Supplements high-dose folic acid supplements might INCREASE cancer risk
Supplements ensuring kids get enough vitamin D
Gastroenterology Ondansetron is being used more for acute nausea and vomiting
Anticoagulants whether dosage changes are needed for the new, LOWER potency unfractionated heparins
Anticoagulants whether warfarin is beneficial for MODERATE-risk patients with atrial fibrillation
Obesity & Weight Loss some people will be trying unusual products for weight loss
Interactions a specific list of drugs to avoid with Plavix