What is Leucovorin?
Leucovorin (folinic acid) is a reduced form of folate (vitamin B9) used medically for certain conditions (e.g., to reduce toxicity of some chemotherapies) and investigated for use in subsets of people with ASD, particularly where folate metabolism or transport problems exist. (Also called folinic acid.)
How does it work in Autism?
Hypotheses and some trials suggest that in children with abnormalities of folate metabolism or cerebral folate deficiency, folinic acid may improve language or behavior by restoring folate-dependent biochemical pathways important for brain function. Evidence remains preliminary and may apply only to specific subgroups.
What are the benefits of Leucovorin?
Some clinical studies and reviews report improvements in language, attention, or certain behaviors in subsets of children (especially those with folate-related biomarkers).
May help if an underlying cerebral folate deficiency is identified.
What are the side effects?
Folinic acid is generally well tolerated at common doses, but safety depends on dose and context; high doses can mask or interact with other nutrient deficiencies and require medical supervision. Professional bodies caution that evidence is not yet definitive for routine use in all children with autism and recommend careful clinician oversight.