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Intafol-D

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Intafol-D

Intafol-D_EN

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Intafol-D

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients DHA, L-Methyl Folate, Methylcobalamin, Pyridoxal 5-phosphate, Vitamin D3
Form Soft Gelatin Capsule
Pharmacological Class Nutritional Supplement / Multivitamin Combination
Common Use Addressing and preventing specific nutritional deficiencies
Origin Derived (Combination of bioactive synthetic vitamins and essential fatty acid)

Intafol-D is precisely defined as a complex nutritional supplement that belongs to the Multivitamin Combination pharmacological class, distinguished by its amalgamation of five essential micronutrients. It is intended to be taken orally, typically delivered in the Soft Gelatin Capsule dosage form. The preparation is a targeted combination product designed to address and prevent documented nutritional deficiencies, positioning it as foundational metabolic support rather than a traditional pharmaceutical drug.

What Kind of Preparation is Intafol-D?

Intafol-D is classified as a nutritional supplement, specifically one that falls into the combined category of essential fatty acid and vitamin preparations. It is a combination product that delivers multiple compounds simultaneously, which distinguishes it from simpler, single-entity vitamins. Combination products containing essential micronutrients are utilized to target known deficiency states or periods of high metabolic demand, such as pregnancy. This shows that the combined formulation helps address the heightened nutritional requirements during specific physiological states.

The Active Ingredients and Bioavailable Forms

The core composition includes three B-vitamins in their highly active, bioavailable forms, alongside Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). Specifically, it contains L-Methyl Folate (the active Vitamin B9), Methylcobalamin (the coenzyme Vitamin B12), and Pyridoxal 5-phosphate (the active Vitamin B6). Using the active form, L-Methyl Folate, rather than standard Folic Acid, ensures immediate nutrient utilization, especially in populations with reduced folate metabolism. This means the preparation is designed to maximize the body's uptake of the Vitamin B9 component. This combination of nutrients plays a critical role in regulating homocysteine levels and supporting myelin sheath maintenance, which is clinically recognized for its benefit in peripheral nerve support.

General Purpose: Why is Intafol-D Recommended?

Intafol-D is generally recommended to provide systemic support by mitigating the effects of deficiencies in the specific nutrients required for core physiological pathways. The preparation's purpose is to supply the necessary substrates for proper cell health and metabolic function, aiding processes like the formation of red blood cells, ensuring integrity of nerve cell membranes, and supporting effective calcium utilization for bone mineralization. Its general application focuses on maximizing nutrient availability for the maintenance of foundational health, often serving as a primary nutritional recommendation for the patient group of women planning pregnancy or during gestation.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH: Folate Health Professional Fact Sheet

What side effects are possible with Intafol-D?

Possible side effects and safety information

The official safety profile for this multivitamin combination is derived from the adverse reactions and high-intake risks documented for its individual components (L-Methyl Folate, Methylcobalamin, Pyridoxal 5-phosphate, DHA, and Vitamin D3) in government regulatory sources.

Adverse Reaction Classifications

Classification Domain Officially Documented Effects
Common Side Effects Gastrointestinal disturbances (such as nausea, stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea) and mild skin reactions (such as rash or pruritus).
System-Organ Classes Gastrointestinal Disorders, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders, Immune System Disorders, and Nervous System Disorders.
Serious Adverse Reactions Severe hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis); Hypercalcemia (excessive blood calcium) linked to high Vitamin D3 intake; Peripheral Neuropathy associated with high, prolonged intake of the Vitamin B6 component.

Regulatory Safety Constraints

The preparation is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any of its active components or excipients. Regulatory documentation also restricts its use in individuals with existing Hypercalcemia.

Exposure-Related Patterns: The risk of Peripheral Neuropathy is explicitly associated with prolonged exposure to high doses of the Pyridoxal 5-phosphate component. Furthermore, the L-Methyl Folate component is restricted in cases of uncorrected Vitamin B12 deficiency to prevent masking the hematological signs while neurological damage progresses.

Special Population Note: Caution is noted for individuals with impaired renal function as this may affect Vitamin D metabolism and increase the risk of hypercalcemia, requiring clinical evaluation.

Regulatory Summary: The documented safety information establishes a risk hierarchy, defining expected effects by organ system and outlining specific contraindications based on component-related toxicities and the folate-masking hazard.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory profile for an overdose of Intafol-D is defined by the toxicological risks associated with excessive intake of Vitamin D3 and Pyridoxal 5-phosphate. Documented clinical manifestations of overdose primarily include symptoms related to hypercalcemia (Vitamin D3 toxicity), such as nausea, recurrent vomiting, abdominal pain, apathy, and confusion, alongside polydipsia (increased thirst) and polyuria.

Pyridoxal 5-phosphate toxicity can present as peripheral sensory neuropathy, characterized by paresthesia (tingling/burning) and ataxia (unsteady gait). Serious outcomes documented in regulatory sources for these toxicities involve the potential for acute kidney failure and cardiac arrhythmia from hypercalcemia, and the risk of long-term or permanent nerve damage from high-dose Pyridoxal 5-phosphate exposure.

Immediate regulatory instructions mandate that individuals seek immediate medical attention upon the suspicion of overdose or if symptoms of neuropathy or severe gastrointestinal upset manifest. Management is defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment, with no specific antidote known for the neurological effects of Pyridoxal 5-phosphate toxicity. Official labeling notes that high-dose folic acid (a component related to L-Methyl Folate) can potentially mask the neurological progression of a concurrent Vitamin B12 deficiency, a population-specific risk that requires consideration.

Therapeutic Uses of Intafol-D

What Intafol-D Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This preparation is commonly used as a targeted nutritional support to address deficiencies in specific micronutrients required for core physiological health. This type of supplementation is utilized for women in the preconception period, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding. It contributes to the critical availability of components that support healthy fetal development and may help reduce the risk of specific birth defects, supporting maternal well-being during periods of high metabolic demand.

Therapeutic Support Domains

The preparation may assist with managing symptomatic discomfort across key domains, including systemic fatigue and generalized weakness, deficiency-related neuropathic symptoms (like tingling and numbness), and is relevant for maintaining bone structural integrity. It is also relevant for individuals needing support in areas linked to hematological and systemic functional stability. This support helps ease the overall symptom load, which contributes to improved day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

Quick Fact: Therapeutic Areas

Application Target Symptoms
Maternal Support High metabolic demand, risk of specific birth defects
Nerve Support Tingling, numbness, neuropathic discomfort
Systemic Support Fatigue, weakness, deficiency-related low energy

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Population Eligibility Rules for Intafol-D

Official regulatory information strictly defines the population groups permitted or prohibited from using Intafol-D.

Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Condition / Population Eligibility Status
Hypersensitivity to any component Contraindicated
Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) Contraindicated
Hypervitaminosis D (Vitamin D toxicity) Contraindicated

The preparation is absolutely prohibited in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or excipients, or in those presenting with hypercalcemia or Hypervitaminosis D.

Restricted and Allowed Populations

Population / Condition Regulatory Stance
Pregnant / Lactating Women Permitted (Intended Use)
Pediatric Patients Not Recommended (Use Not Established)
Severe Renal or Hepatic Impairment Restricted / Requires Caution
Uncorrected Vitamin B12 Deficiency Restriction / Caution Advised

Use is established and permitted for adult women, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, aligning with the preparation's primary purpose. Use is not established or recommended for children and adolescents. The label requires caution for individuals with uncorrected Vitamin B12 deficiency or severe impairment of kidney or liver function.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile of Intafol-D, a combination nutritional supplement, is defined by the metabolic and absorption properties of its active components, primarily Vitamin D3 and L-Methyl Folate. All officially documented interactions focus on altering the body's exposure to the nutrients or modifying physiological effects, such as mineral balance.

Interacting Substance Category Official Interaction Pattern Constraint Type
Enzyme-Inducing Anticonvulsants Medicines like Phenytoin and Carbamazepine may reduce the effects of the Vitamin D component by accelerating its breakdown (catabolism). Exposure Reduction
Absorption-Reducing Agents Bile Acid Sequestrants (e.g., Cholestyramine) and Mineral Oil reduce the intestinal uptake of the fat-soluble vitamins (D3, DHA) and folate, compromising nutrient exposure. Timing/Separation
Cardiac/Mineral Agents Thiazide diuretics and high-dose Calcium Supplements pose an additive risk of hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia may increase the risk of arrhythmias in patients taking Digitalis. Pharmacodynamic Risk

A mandatory timing separation is required when co-administering the preparation with absorption-reducing agents to minimize compromised uptake. Specifically, these agents must be separated from Intafol-D by several hours. Additionally, the L-Methyl Folate component is associated with a specific interaction caution: in certain populations, it may mask the diagnosis of pernicious anemia (Vitamin B12 deficiency) by reversing only the hematological signs, allowing potential neurological complications to progress without detection. The use of Magnesium-containing preparations may also lead to a risk of hypermagnesemia, particularly for patients with impaired kidney function.

Mechanism of Action

Intafol-D acts through the combined activity of its five active micronutrients, which function as co-factors and structural modulators across key cellular pathways.

Modulation of One-Carbon Metabolism and Homocysteine Levels

Active B-vitamins (L-Methylfolate, Methylcobalamin, Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate) function as coenzymes to catalyze the conversion of homocysteine back into methionine, thus facilitating the continuation of the one-carbon cycle. This pathway regulation supports the process of DNA synthesis and leads to the consumption of circulating homocysteine, a precursor in the transsulfuration pathway.

Structural Integration and Receptor Agonism

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) integrates directly into the phospholipid bilayers of cell membranes, particularly in neural tissue. DHA acts as a structural modulator by altering membrane fluidity and protein function, thereby influencing neuronal signaling patterns.

In parallel, Vitamin D3 acts as a precursor to a steroid hormone that functions as an agonist on the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), a nuclear transcription factor. This genomic action regulates gene expression, leading to the physiological outcome of controlling calcium and phosphate transport in the intestine, which subsequently impacts the processes of mineral homeostasis and bone structure.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines

Intafol-D, a fixed-dose combination of micronutrients and DHA, is designed for oral administration only. The regimen is established as the consumption of one Soft Gelatin Capsule once daily.

Administration Scope

Instruction Category Official Guideline
Route of administration The medication is for oral use only.
Dosing schedule The established regimen is one unit (capsule) per day.
Timing in relation to meals Administration should occur with a meal or shortly after food intake.
Age-group administration Standard regimen is applied to the adult population, particularly for women requiring maternal nutritional support.
Special procedural conditions The capsule must be swallowed whole with water and must not be crushed, chewed, or broken.

Course Duration and Dosing Protocol

The frequency is a consistent once daily (qDay) pattern, which supports the continuous nutritional requirements of the patient population. This preparation is intended for a long-term use context, often encompassing the entire cycle of planning conception, gestation, and the postnatal period.

To ensure proper absorption of the fat-soluble components, the instruction to take the capsule with food is a key administration condition. If a dose is missed, the standard procedure is that it should be omitted entirely, and the next scheduled dose should be taken at the usual time. These procedural steps define a standardized, consistent oral routine.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Intafol-D

Evidence for Maternal and Fetal Support

Research for this area largely explored the roles of the active components, L-Methyl Folate and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), as studied in populations of pregnant women and those planning conception. Studies have included Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and long-term observational cohorts. The research examined outcomes such as fetal neurodevelopmental status, cognitive and language scores in children, and the maintenance of essential nutrient levels in the mother and cord blood. The folate component was studied in research examining the risk of specific birth defects.

In terms of what the studies reported, research documented the ability of the components to achieve target levels in maternal blood. Research monitored certain blood levels during the study period. Findings regarding the long-term cognitive and neurodevelopmental status of offspring associated with maternal DHA supplementation were mixed or inconsistent across different trials. Some evidence indicates a data pattern related to the L-Methyl Folate component and executive function assessments in children at school age.

Evidence for Deficiency-Related Nerve and Systemic Support

Studies for this indication explored the combination of active B-vitamins (L-Methyl Folate, Methylcobalamin, and Pyridoxal 5-phosphate) and were conducted in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms. The core evidence base includes short-term, placebo-controlled RCTs and systematic reviews. Research explored patient-reported outcomes describing physical discomfort related to nerve symptoms (e.g., tingling, numbness) and biomarker shifts in plasma.

Studies monitored patterns related to symptomatic physical discomfort, with some short-term trials reporting changes in patient-reported symptom scores over the study period. Research described patterns of change in certain blood markers that was observed in some studies. Separately, administrative claims analyses was used in observational settings evaluating daily-life functioning.

Research Gaps and Areas for Further Study

What is still uncertain is the study landscape of the full five-component combination over a prolonged follow-up period; the long-term effects are not fully established by current combination studies. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, particularly individuals with non-diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Research provides context but not individual predictions.

Evidence consistency varies across studies, and comparative evidence between different combination products is often lacking. For certain outcomes related to physical discomfort, researchers noted that the follow-up durations were limited and may not have been long enough to fully capture how symptoms evolved in the observed populations.

Key Studies & References

  1. NIH: Folate Bioavailability and Health Professional Fact Sheet
  2. MedlinePlus: Combination Supplements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Intafol-D (FAQ)

Q: What is Intafol-D used for?

Intafol-D is a prescription medication indicated for the management of certain vitamin deficiencies when dietary intake is insufficient or absorption is impaired, as determined by a healthcare provider.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

If a dose is missed, patients should refer to the specific instructions provided by their prescribing physician or the directions found on the medication's official labeling. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.

How should Intafol-D be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements for Intafol-D

Intafol-D must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, which is generally defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).

Storage Conditions

The product must be protected from heat, light, and moisture to maintain the stability of the soft gelatin capsules and active ingredients. It is required to keep the medication in its original container and ensure the container is kept tightly closed.

For child safety, the product must be stored out of the reach of children at all times.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Intafol-D must be disposed of properly. The official regulatory instruction is to dispose of the product according to local regulations for pharmaceutical waste, ensuring it is not thrown into general household trash or wastewater.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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