leucovorin dr oz

Leucovorin, also known as folinic acid, is a form of vitamin B9 (folate) that has recently received FDA approval for a new use related to autism treatment. Traditionally, leucovorin has been used to counteract the toxic effects of certain chemotherapy drugs like methotrexate and to treat specific types of anemia. Research has suggested that leucovorin can be beneficial in treating cerebral folate deficiency (CFD), a rare metabolic condition linked to neurological symptoms sometimes seen in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The FDA's label update now includes leucovorin as a potential treatment for children with CFD and autistic symptoms, intending to improve aspects such as communication skills in some children with autism. Dr. Mehmet Oz, in his role as Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), was involved in the recent federal announcement on leucovorin and autism treatment led by President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. Additionally, Dr. Oz's supplement company iHerb sells folinic acid supplements, showing a direct connection to the drug outside of his government position. While leptovirin shows promise for helping some children with autism, experts emphasize that evidence is still preliminary and further rigorous clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and safety for widespread autism treatment. It is expected to be used alongside behavioral and speech therapies, not as a standalone cure. Families are advised to work with knowledgeable medical professionals for appropriate dosing and monitoring. This development represents a significant step toward broader medical recognition and insurance coverage for leucovorin as an autism-related treatment, with states required to cover it under Medicaid following the FDA label change.