- Studies have shown a link between folate deficiency and psychiatric disorders. In particular, depressive symptoms are the most common manifestation of folate deficiency. Low folate levels have been found to be associated with depressive symptoms and with longer duration of depressive episodes. Depressed patients with folate deficiency showed a poorer response to standard treatment with antidepressants. Therefore, for patients with low plasma or red blood cell folate levels, folate augmentation during antidepressant treatment may improve patient outcomes.
- Folate is a B vitamin that occurs naturally in food as dihydrofolate and in vitamins and supplements as synthetic folic acid. L-methylfolate is the only form of folate that can cross the blood-brain barrier. L-Methylfolate is involved in the production of monoamines serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are involved in the regulation of mood and the mechanisms of actions of antidepressants. The availability of L-methylfolate in the body and brain is higher compared to folic acid. Moreover, up to 70% of depressed patients have a genetic variant which compromises their ability to convert dietary folate or synthetic folic acid to L-methylfolate. L-Methylfolate supplementation may thus improve response to antidepressants that affect monoamines among depressed patients who do not respond adequately.
- L-Methylfolate (7.5 and 15 mg) has been shown in multiple studies to enhance antidepressant response when added to SSRIs (Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, etc.) or SNRIs (Effexor, Cymbalta, Pristiq).
- In studies on L-methylfolate, patient medication satisfaction and compliance was very high. This supplement has been shown to be very well tolerated. It is available over the counter and online.