Deplin (L-methylfolate) is a prescription medical food, sometimes known as a nutraceutical, made up of folic acid—a form of vitamin B. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, which occurs naturally in our bodies and various foods.

Getting sufficient folate can prevent anemia and other diseases. Deplin is typically used by people who have suboptimal levels of folate with certain psychiatric disorders.

Uses

The active ingredient in Deplin is L-methylfolate, which is a synthetic form of folate. Folate is needed by the body to efficiently produce red blood cells. 

Deplin is generally used as an adjunctive treatment in the management of major depressive disorder in patients with suboptimal folate levels.

There are other generic products available, such as Methylpro, that have the same ingredients and dosing but are far more cost-effective.

This medical food is particularly used for the dietary management of people who have major depressive disorder or schizophrenia with suboptimal folate levels.

Major Depressive Disorder

Deplin is made up of L-methylfolate which is an active form of folic acid. Folate has been shown to help naturally improve moods and a folate deficiency has been linked to certain types of depression.

Dietary folic acid must be converted in the body to L-methylfolate in order for it to cross the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain it undergoes a series of chemical reactions to convert it to its final form, which is used in the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

Deplin is typically used alongside antidepressants to help treat depression. If your folate levels are suboptimal, it might be sometimes harder for your antidepressants to work as effectively.

Some individuals have variations of the MTHFR gene that lead to reduced conversion of folic acid to L-methylfolate and it is thought that these individuals are likely to benefit most from L-methylfolate augmentation of antidepressants.

In a 2013 study assessing the effects of L-methylfolate in the management of depression, researchers found that when L-methylfolate was used alongside antidepressants in 502 participants with major depressive disorder, they reported improvement in depression symptoms and greater satisfaction with their medication treatment.

Before Taking

Before prescribing Deplin, your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough review of your medical history. If you have any allergies to folate or the other ingredients contained in Deplin, make sure to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

It’s important to know that Deplin is not an antidepressant but can potentially enhance the effects of antidepressants in people with major depressive disorder.

You can ask your provider for a comprehensive list of active and inactive ingredients to be sure. If you have a history of vitamin B deficiency, you should also share this with them.

Precautions and Contraindications 

Although generally considered safe in pregnancy, if you are pregnant or you just had a baby and intend to breastfeed you should let your healthcare provider know before taking Deplin.

Dosage

Deplin is a prescription medical food, which means that the dosage is typically outlined by your doctor to fit your specific needs. You shouldn’t increase or reduce the dosage prescribed for you without first consulting your doctor.

This drug is typically prescribed to be taken once a day. To avoid missing any doses, set an alarm for the same time every day to take it. Deplin is available in two dosages: 7.5 milligrams (mg) and 15 milligrams (mg).

How to Take and Store 

You can either take Deplin with or without food, however it should be swallowed whole and not chewed or split into two. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.

Manufacturers Dosage Recommendations

Major depressive disorder, adjunctive treatment and schizophrenia, adjunctive treatment: 7.5 mg to 15 mg taken once a day 

Store your medication in a dry place at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in your bathroom as bathrooms can get very humid and moist. Deplin should be taken regularly to get the most optimal benefits from it. You shouldn’t discontinue Deplin without first consulting your doctor.

If it’s close to the time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose to avoid the risk of overdosing. 

You also shouldn’t share Deplin with any family or friends who might have similar symptoms as you.

Side Effects 

Deplin and folic acids, in general, typically have very few side effects. However, some people might experience an allergic reaction while using this drug. Even though this is very rare, here are the signs of an allergic reaction to look for when using Deplin: 

Deplin is also available in a generic formulation as L-methylfolate calcium (Metafolin) and Algae-S powder (Schizochytrium). However, sometimes generic formulations may not be as effective as brand preparations.

  • Difficulty breathing Dizziness A skin rash Swelling of the face, tongue or throat

If you notice any of the above symptoms, stop using Deplin and contact your healthcare provider immediately. If you notice any other unusual effects that are not life-threatening but could be bothersome, speak to your provider about it. 

Warning and Interactions 

Although not thought to have significant interactions with prescription or over-the-counter medications, before taking, give your healthcare provider a list of all other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking.

Common Side Effects of Taking Deplin

  • Nausea Weight loss Gass Irritability Overactivity Bloating Difficulty concentrating

If you are already on Deplin and need to start taking another drug, update your doctor to ensure that there’ll be no adverse reactions. However, Deplin has no known severe interactions with any other medications. 

It’s possible to overdose on Deplin, although it is not thought likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.

Emergency

If you suspect you are experiencing an overdose or notice someone has overdosed call 911 or your local poison control center immediately.