what does leucovorin do

Leucovorin is a medication that acts as a form of folic acid and is primarily used to reduce the toxic effects of methotrexate, a chemotherapy drug. It helps to protect healthy cells from the harmful effects of methotrexate by replenishing folic acid in the body, which methotrexate depletes. Leucovorin is also used to enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs like 5-fluorouracil in treating cancers such as colorectal cancer. Additionally, it can be used to treat certain types of anemia when folic acid intake is insufficient or not possible orally. It is given orally or by injection depending on the situation. In summary, leucovorin serves as a protective "rescue" agent for healthy cells during cancer treatment involving methotrexate, supports some chemotherapy regimens, and can treat folate deficiency-related anemia.