Folic acid and the treatment of depression

J Psychosom Res. 2006 Sep;61(3):285-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2006.07.007.

Abstract

Reduced plasma, serum, or red blood cell folate is commonly found in major depressive illnesses. Supplementing antidepressant medication with folic acid enhances the therapeutic effect. Although more work is required to confirm these beneficial results, it is suggested that, meanwhile, 2 mg of folic acid should be given during the acute, continuation, and maintenance treatment of depression.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Depressive Disorder, Major* / blood
  • Depressive Disorder, Major* / drug therapy
  • Depressive Disorder, Major* / epidemiology
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Folic Acid Deficiency* / blood
  • Folic Acid Deficiency* / drug therapy
  • Folic Acid Deficiency* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia / blood
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia / epidemiology