Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B9 (folinic acid) is sometimes used in the management of wasting, particularly in the context of specific underlying causes such as malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, or cancer. The rationale for its use stems from the role of folate in DNA synthesis, cell division, and tissue repair—all processes that are crucial in conditions associated with wasting. Folinic acid (also known as leucovorin) is a form of folate that can be used even in cases where folic acid metabolism is impaired, such as during certain chemotherapy regimens.

Scientific evidence directly linking folinic acid supplementation with the reversal or mitigation of wasting (characterized by unintentional weight and muscle loss) is limited. Most studies focus on folate deficiency states, or in the context of treating side effects from drugs like methotrexate, rather than wasting as a primary indication. In diseases associated with malabsorption (such as HIV/AIDS), folate deficiency is common and may contribute to poor nutritional status and muscle wasting. In these cases, supplementation is justified to correct a deficiency state, but evidence that it directly reverses wasting is weak.

Overall, folinic acid is used in certain clinical settings where folate deficiency is a contributing factor to wasting, but robust clinical trials specifically demonstrating efficacy for wasting as a standalone indication are lacking. Evidence is mainly indirect or extrapolated from support of general nutritional needs in wasting-associated diseases.

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