Methylfolate and Depression
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Consider L-methylfolate to improve mood?
Methylfolate and depression management
Written By:
Katie Stone - Naturopath
Medical Reviewer:
Dr. Conor Sheehy - PharmD, BCPS
Edited By:
Kari Asadorian - RN
Updated On:
Sep 1, 2024
How does methylfolate work within the body to treat depression?
Methylfolate dosage for depression treatment and how to take it (morning/evening)
Every case of depression is different. Your unique body chemistry and health history should be assessed by a qualified health practitioner before you start any supplement regime.
To date, studies involving patients with depressive disorders who are given the prescription medical food L-methylfolate (Deplin) may have to take anywhere from 7.5 mg to 15 mg to achieve its benefits.
A 2012 study showed that supplementary L-methylfolate at 15 mg/day resulted in significant improvement in the response and degree of change in depression scores as compared to continued SSRI therapy plus placebo 2.
To figure out the right methylfolate dosage for your own needs, your best bet would be to seek out an assessment from a qualified healthcare provider or naturopath.
Some physicians suggest taking methylfolate 2x a day to keep the serum folate levels in the body more steady over a longer period of time. Learn more about L-methylfolate dosage suggestions.
How long does it take to see results?
Taking antidepressants and L-methylfolate together
Connection between folate levels and depression
Numerous studies have shown that low folate may result in poor response to antidepressants and/or relapse of depressive symptoms, and also longer duration of depressive episodes 10,11.
MTHFR gene mutations are associated with an increased risk of a variety of common mental health conditions, including depression. This may be due to the body’s inability to metabolize folic acid efficiently, leading to lower levels of L-methylfolate and, subsequently, poor neurotransmitter production.
Up to 70% of depressed patients have the MTHFR genetic mutation that compromises their ability to convert folate from food or from synthetic folic acid (used in some supplements) to L-methylfolate 12.
A 2019 study investigated the efficacy of using L-methylfolate in depressed patients who also had the MTHFR variants C677T and A1298C. Patients with the C677T genotype who were treated with L-methylfolate showed significant improvement in their depressive symptoms, which supported previous studies that associated the C677T genotype with L-methylfolate deficiency and depression. However, they added that further studies were needed to confirm the efficacy of L-methylfolate treatment for depression.
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About the Author
Katie is a qualified naturopath (BNatMed) and freelance writer from New Zealand. She specializes in all things health and wellness, particularly dietary supplements and nutrition. Katie is also a dedicated runner and has completed more half-marathons than she can count!