As a prescription vitamin that contains the active form of
folic acid, Deplin
® may help improve the effectiveness of
antidepressant and
antipsychotic medications. Deplin can help increase low folate levels in people with
depression. It can also help lower homocysteine levels in people with
schizophrenia.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers Deplin a medical food, rather than a prescription drug. Medical foods are products that are used for the dietary management of medical conditions that have unique dietary needs. They should only be used under medical supervision.
Deplin comes in the form of a tablet and is typically taken once a day. Although most people do not experience any problems with this vitamin, side effects are possible and may include gas, nausea, and loss of appetite.
(Click Deplin for more detailed information. This featured article provides a complete overview of this supplement, including a detailed look at how combining antidepressant or antipsychotic medications with Deplin can improve the effectiveness of the drugs.)