Can folic acid and fluoxetine be taken together?

Generally, folic acid and fluoxetine can be taken together, but potential allergies must first be ruled out. If there are any concerns about medication use, it is advisable to consult a doctor in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin primarily used to prevent fetal neural tube defects and to treat certain types of anemia such as megaloblastic anemia. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant that improves mood by regulating brain neurotransmitters. Since the two medications work through different mechanisms, taking them together typically does not cause toxic side effects or worsen adverse reactions. On the contrary, their combined use may provide supportive benefits for some depressed patients who also have anemia.

However, if a patient has a known allergy to either folic acid or fluoxetine, combination use should be strictly avoided to prevent allergic reactions such as rash or difficulty breathing. Additionally, individuals taking antiepileptic drugs, anti-tuberculosis medications, or chemotherapy agents long-term should consult their doctor before supplementing with folic acid, as it may reduce the effectiveness of treatments for their primary conditions.

During treatment, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions and avoid adjusting dosages or discontinuing medication without guidance. If symptoms such as nausea or dizziness occur, or if existing symptoms fail to improve, prompt follow-up with a healthcare provider is necessary to adjust the treatment plan.