What Is Leucovorin and Why It Matters for Neurodevelopmental Health
What Is Leucovorin? Leucovorin (also called folinic acid) is a form of folate (vitamin B9 derivative) that bypasses some of the metabolic steps required by folic acid. It’s traditionally used in medicine to rescue healthy cells from high-dose methotrexate toxicity in cancer therapy Mayo Clinic+1 . Leucovorin helps mitigate side effects by supplying reduced folate that the body can use directly. Emerging Interest in Neurodevelopment In recent years, scientists have explored whether leucovorin may be beneficial in cases of cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) — a condition in which there is insufficient transport of folate into the brain, leading to neurological symptoms. Some individuals with CFD present autistic features , cognitive delays, seizures, or movement disorders U.S. Food and Drug Administration . In September 2025, the FDA initiated action to approve leucovorin calcium tablets for cerebral folate deficiency, based on case reports and mechanistic studies from 2009–2024....
