Potential reduction in neural tube defects associated with use of Metafolin-fortified oral contraceptives in the United States
Taylor, T.N.; Farkouh, R.A.; Graham, J.B.; Colligs, A.; Lindemann, M.; Lynen, R.; Candrilli, S.D.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 205(5): 460.E1-8
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 1097-6868 PMID: 21903192 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2011.06.048Document Number: 227749
The objective of the study was to estimate the potential reduction of neural tube defects (NTDs) through the use of Metafolin-fortified oral contraceptives (OCs) in the United States. A population-based decision analytic model was developed to estimate the benefits of increased red blood cell (RBC) folate levels through the use of Metafolin-fortified OCs on NTD risk during pregnancy. We modeled women who began the year taking Metafolin-fortified or traditional OCs. Folate levels were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and clinical trial data. NTD risk was estimated by applying a published risk equation to respective RBC folate levels. The number of predicted NTD cases declined by 23.7% to 31.4%, depending on median baseline folate levels in women taking a fortified OC compared with taking a traditional OC. Metafolin-fortified OCs have the potential to reduce the number of folate-dependent NTDs among current and recent OC users.
Document emailed within 0-6 h
