Arcofolin

Arcofolin is a proprietary sodium salt of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5-MTHF), which is the primary biologically active form of folate found in human circulation. Developed by **Merck KGaA**, Arcofolin serves as a highly soluble and bioavailable alternative to synthetic folic acid. Unlike folic acid, which requires multi-step enzymatic reduction by dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) to become active, Arcofolin is immediately available for cellular utilization. This makes it particularly effective for individuals with MTHFR genetic polymorphisms who may have a reduced ability to process folic acid. It is utilized in dietary supplements, medical foods, and pharmaceutical formulations to address folate deficiency, support prenatal health (preventing neural tube defects), and manage conditions like hyperhomocysteinemia and depression.

Brand names

Arcofolin

Other names

Sodium (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate(6S)-5-Methyltetrahydrofolic acid sodium salt5-MTHF-NaL-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate sodiumL5-Methyltetrahydrofolate sodiumL 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate sodium