Optimizing periconceptional folic acid supplementation: Steady-state folate pharmacokinetics in pregnancy (LB416)

Background: Folic acid supplementation before and during pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects. Although previous studies have investigated folate status in non-pregnant women of childbearing age, steady-state folate pharmacokinetics have never been evaluated in pregnant women to inform healthcare recommendations regarding the timing of prenatal multivitamin supplementation. Objective: To compare the steady-state periconceptional and gestational RBC and plasma folate levels in pregnant women who supplement daily with prenatal multivitamins containing 1.1mg (regular dose) vs. 5mg (high dose) folic acid. Methods: 37 women, between 18-45 years of age, who were early in pregnancy or trying to conceive, and were not previously taking folic acid-containing supplements, were enrolled in this open-label, 2-arm, randomized clinical trial after obtaining informed consent. Participants were randomly assigned to take either 1.1mg or 5mg of folic acid-containing prenatal multivitamins daily till 30 weeks g...