We examined the effects of folic acid as an add-on treatment for major depression alongside traditional medications like SSRIs and SNRIs. After reviewing six randomized control trials, we found that patients receiving folic acid showed better progress.
Specifically, their depression scores improved significantly, with higher response and remission rates as well. This suggests that adding folic acid might enhance the benefits of standard depression therapies, giving hope to those looking for more effective treatment options.
Read More
8
Folic acid shows promise against depression
Evaluation of the Behavioural, Antioxidative and Histomorphological Effects of Folic Acid-supplemented Diet in Dexamethasone-induced Depression in Mice.
We evaluated how folic acid supplementation affects depression-related behaviors and brain health in a mouse model. Over eight weeks, mice received either a standard diet or one supplemented with folic acid.
Those on the folic acid diet showed improved behavior, including increased activity and reduced signs of despair in stress tests. Moreover, they exhibited better antioxidant levels and healthier brain structures.
Overall, the findings suggest that folic acid may help counteract depression and support cognitive function.
Read More
8
Folate's role in depression treatment
Folate supplementation as a beneficial add-on treatment in relieving depressive symptoms: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses.
We conducted an umbrella meta-analysis to explore how folate affects depression. By sifting through various studies up to October 2023 from multiple databases like PubMed and Scopus, we wanted to find a clear answer regarding folate supplementation's role in alleviating depressive symptoms.
Our analysis included 11 relevant studies, out of which 8 underwent a quantitative review. The findings were promising: folate supplementation showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, with results suggesting an effect size that indicates moderate improvement. Specifically, the standardized mean difference was -0.42, and the weighted mean difference was -3.20, demonstrating a notable benefit with very little variability between studies.
Additionally, we found that those with low folate levels had a 35% higher chance of experiencing depression compared to their counterparts with adequate levels. This suggests a strong link between folate insufficiency and depressive symptoms.
Overall, our findings support the idea that folate supplementation could be an effective adjunct treatment when combined with standard depression therapies, providing individuals with another tool to manage their mental health.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Significant improvement
23 people found this helpful
The depression killer! I have experienced depression all my life. Methyl folate has significantly aided me in overcoming depression and mood swings. Its potency surpasses most other products, which is sufficient to do the job. Additionally, I take choline for better nerve transmission and exercise daily, yielding numerous benefits that I can't list fully here. My doctor was astonished by my progress. I hope this assists you in your journey.
Read More
9
Improves condition
12 people found this helpful
I'm not a medic, and I rely on my sensations. I occasionally experience mild depression, which, if unchecked, could escalate. However, this medication helps prevent a downturn and even improves my state of depression, leading to complete relief. It’s also said to enhance heart function and the effectiveness of antidepressants, particularly in women, while normalising sleep and appetite—something I can attest to as it has notably aided me.
Read More
9
Fights depression
2 people found this helpful
Great! Helps combat depression. I received it promptly and well-packaged. I highly recommend it!
We explored the effects of chlorzoxazone and folic acid on anxiety, depression, and memory using a mouse model of Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 3 (SCA3).
The combination of these treatments showed promising results, particularly in reducing signs of anxiety and depression while enhancing recognition memory in SCA3-84Q mice.
This suggests that a combined therapy might be beneficial for managing both motor and cognitive symptoms related to ataxia, highlighting the potential of folic acid in improving mood.
Read More
9
Folic acid mitigates depression symptoms
Gestational folic acid supplement prevents vitamin D deficiency-induced depression-like behavior by reversing cortical DNA hypomethylation in adult offspring.
We examined how maternal vitamin D deficiency (VDD) impacts depression-like behaviors in offspring and the potential role of folic acid in this process.
Female mice were fed a VDD diet during pregnancy, leading to clear depression-like behaviors in their adult offspring.
However, when folic acid was given, it reversed certain negative changes, like DNA methylation, and reduced symptoms of depression.
This suggests that folic acid could be a significant factor in mitigating depression-related issues associated with maternal vitamin D deficiency.
Read More
9
Folic acid aids depression treatment
Folate as adjunct therapy to SSRI/SNRI for major depressive disorder: Systematic review & meta-analysis.
We examined the effects of folic acid as an add-on treatment for major depression alongside traditional medications like SSRIs and SNRIs. After reviewing six randomized control trials, we found that patients receiving folic acid showed better progress.
Specifically, their depression scores improved significantly, with higher response and remission rates as well. This suggests that adding folic acid might enhance the benefits of standard depression therapies, giving hope to those looking for more effective treatment options.
Read More
8
Multivitamins reduce depression symptoms
The effect of multivitamins on anxiety and depression in patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment: A double-blind randomized controlled trial.
We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial with 70 male patients undergoing Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT), to see how multivitamins affect anxiety and depression. Participants received either multivitamins or a placebo for 12 weeks. While we found no notable improvement in anxiety, there's encouraging news: the multivitamin group experienced significant reductions in depression levels. This suggests that certain vitamins, including folic acid, can positively influence mood among those in MMT.
This study focused on whether folic acid can help reduce depressive-like behaviors triggered by inflammation in mice.
We observed that folic acid significantly lowered immobility in tail suspension tests and improved behaviors affected by tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α).
Even at low doses, folic acid combined with common antidepressants showed positive effects. We found that it also influenced specific brain signaling pathways, possibly helping to balance mood by acting on certain neurotransmitter systems.
Overall, folic acid appears to be effective against inflammation-induced depression in this model.
The depression killer! I have experienced depression all my life. Methyl folate has significantly aided me in overcoming depression and mood swings. Its potency surpasses most other products, which is sufficient to do the job. Additionally, I take choline for better nerve transmission and exercise daily, yielding numerous benefits that I can't list fully here. My doctor was astonished by my progress. I hope this assists you in your journey.
Read More
9
Improves condition
12 people found this helpful
I'm not a medic, and I rely on my sensations. I occasionally experience mild depression, which, if unchecked, could escalate. However, this medication helps prevent a downturn and even improves my state of depression, leading to complete relief. It’s also said to enhance heart function and the effectiveness of antidepressants, particularly in women, while normalising sleep and appetite—something I can attest to as it has notably aided me.
Read More
9
Fights depression
2 people found this helpful
Great! Helps combat depression. I received it promptly and well-packaged. I highly recommend it!
Read More
10
Improves mood
I take 5000mcg of methyl folic acid due to my MTHFR mutation. Since I began this supplement, I feel like a different person—no depression or tiredness. It has made a significant difference.
Read More
10
Mood uplifted
I've been taking this for over 100 days alongside B12 and B complex. I’ve noticed benefits for my skin, hair, and mood—my depression has disappeared, and my hair is becoming fuller, aiding in fighting baldness.
Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and it goes beyond just feeling down; it can interfere significantly with daily life, impacting relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. Symptoms of depression may include changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of worthlessness or suicide.
The causes of depression are complex and may involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. While it's a serious condition that can be debilitating, the good news is that it is treatable. Various treatment options are available, including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support groups. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, seeking help from a healthcare professional is a crucial step toward recovery.
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, particularly in the synthesis of DNA and RNA. It is essential for cell division and is especially important during periods of rapid growth, such as during pregnancy and infancy. The body cannot produce folic acid on its own, which is why it must be obtained from dietary sources or supplements. Commonly found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, seeds, and fortified foods, folic acid is vital for preventing neural tube defects in developing fetuses and is often recommended for women of childbearing age.
In addition to its key role in pregnancy, folic acid contributes to the production of red blood cells and can help reduce the risk of certain types of anemia. Research has also suggested that adequate folic acid levels may be associated with lowered risk of heart disease and other health issues. Most health organizations recommend a daily intake of 400 micrograms for adults, with higher amounts suggested for pregnant women. Incorporating folate-rich foods into your diet, or considering supplementation, can help ensure you meet your folic acid needs.
Folic acid, a B-vitamin important for cell division and the production of DNA, has been studied for its potential role in mental health, particularly in relation to depression. Several studies indicate that folate deficiency may be linked to depressive symptoms, suggesting that adequate levels of this nutrient could contribute to better mental health outcomes. Some research has shown that supplementing with folic acid may enhance the effectiveness of antidepressant medications, particularly in individuals with low folate levels.
However, while some evidence supports the relationship between folic acid and improved mood, it's important to view these findings with caution. Folic acid should not be considered a standalone treatment for depression, and individuals experiencing symptoms should consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive approach that may include therapy, lifestyle changes, and other medications. While maintaining sufficient folate levels may support overall mental well-being, the best approach to managing depression should be personalized and guided by a qualified professional.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from taking this supplement for depression can vary. Some users report feeling significant improvements in mood within a month of starting the supplement. For instance, one user mentioned that they experienced "considerable improvements" after just less than a month of use Read Review. Another user who had taken the supplement for 100 days indicated their mood had improved significantly during that time Read Review.
Moreover, individual experiences suggest that others felt changes even sooner; one mentioned feeling "like a different person" after starting the supplement Read Review. Thus, while some may see improvements within weeks, others might require a longer duration to experience the full benefits associated with this supplement. It’s important to remember that individual results can vary widely depending on personal health conditions and the specific nature of their depression.
The use of folic acid and its derivatives, particularly methylfolate, has garnered attention in the scientific community for their potential role in managing depression. Multiple studies have indicated that folate supplementation may improve depressive symptoms, especially when combined with traditional antidepressant medications. For instance, research has shown that low-dose methylfolate, when used alongside standard antidepressants, can lead to better treatment outcomes, suggesting a synergistic effect that enhances the efficacy of traditional therapies [1]. Another systematic review highlighted the benefits of folic acid as an adjunct treatment, with many patients experiencing improved depression scores and higher remission rates compared to those who did not receive it [10].
Furthermore, findings point to a correlation between low folate levels and increased depression risk, particularly in older adults. A large meta-analysis revealed that folate supplementation is associated with significant reductions in depressive symptoms [18]. While these studies present promising evidence supporting folic acid and its associations with mental health, further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms at play and to establish clear clinical guidelines for its use in depression treatment.
According to user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their symptoms of depression after using methyl folate supplements. For example, one user described feeling "like a different person," experiencing no depression or tiredness after starting treatment Read Review. Others echoed these sentiments, mentioning improvements in mood, energy levels, and even recovery from long-standing depressive symptoms after consistent use. One user highlighted a remarkable shift in mood after addressing a B9 deficiency, which had put them in a depressive state for an extended period Read Review.
Additionally, users have noted supplementary benefits that support overall mental well-being, such as enhanced sleep and appetite normalization Read Review. It's also worth mentioning that many users reported improvements in physical health aspects, like hair growth and skin vitality, alongside their mood enhancements Read Review. However, individual results can vary based on personal health factors and the severity of depression, so it’s crucial to consider these experiences as anecdotal. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen is advisable.
Users have shared positive experiences regarding the combination of methyl folate with other supplements to manage depression. One reviewer highlighted that they achieved significant mood improvements after taking methyl folate alongside B12 and B complex vitamins, noting that their depression had effectively disappeared along with benefits such as healthier hair and skin Read Review. Another review pointed out that combining methyl folate with choline has enhanced nerve transmission and overall well-being, which in turn contributed to overcoming long-standing issues with depression and mood swings Read Review.
Additionally, users indicated that methyl folate may enhance the efficacy of antidepressants, particularly for women, and might aid in alleviating mild depressive symptoms when used in conjunction with other health-promoting practices, such as regular exercise Read Review. These anecdotal reports suggest that while individual experiences may vary, there could be a synergistic effect when methyl folate is combined with other supplements, contributing to improved mood regulation and overall mental well-being.
Users report varying doses of Folic Acid, particularly methyl folate, for treating depression with noticeable benefits. A commonly referenced dosage is 5000 mcg, which some users have claimed made a significant impact on their mood and energy levels, with one individual stating they felt like a "different person" after starting this regimen (Read Review). Others have combined Folic Acid with B12 and B complex vitamins, contributing to improvements in mood, cognitive function, and overall health (Read Review; Read Review).
Additionally, some users highlighted the importance of adequate dosing to support neurotransmitter production, which is crucial for mood regulation. Insufficient levels of these neurotransmitters are associated with depression, making proper folate intake vital (Read Review). While individual experiences may vary, those who have tested various dosages suggest that higher amounts, particularly in the range of 5000 mcg, yield noticeable improvements in depressive symptoms and overall mental well-being.
7.5
Feeling better
4 people found this helpful
I absolutely adore shopping with you; delivery to Brazil is extraordinary! I've only been on this product for less than a month and have already noticed considerable improvements. My B vitamins and vitamin D were significantly low, causing cognitive issues, body aches, and ultimately depression and panic attacks. The folate has been essential for health and aiding in vitamin absorption, thank goodness I'm regaining my strength. I highly recommend making this purchase!
10
Mood uplifted
I've been taking this for over 100 days alongside B12 and B complex. I’ve noticed benefits for my skin, hair, and mood—my depression has disappeared, and my hair is becoming fuller, aiding in fighting baldness.
10
Improves mood
I take 5000mcg of methyl folic acid due to my MTHFR mutation. Since I began this supplement, I feel like a different person—no depression or tiredness. It has made a significant difference.
7.5
Mood normalization
4 people found this helpful
I chose this specific folate due to its high dosage and volume. I require folate to restore my methylation cycle impacted by stress and deficiencies, having previously discovered a B9 deficiency. I had never felt such depression before. After starting this folic acid, I noticed a remarkable improvement in my mood, which I hadn’t experienced before despite trying other options. This form of folate has been highly beneficial, especially when combined with my research on methylation processes.
9
Improves condition
12 people found this helpful
I'm not a medic, and I rely on my sensations. I occasionally experience mild depression, which, if unchecked, could escalate. However, this medication helps prevent a downturn and even improves my state of depression, leading to complete relief. It’s also said to enhance heart function and the effectiveness of antidepressants, particularly in women, while normalising sleep and appetite—something I can attest to as it has notably aided me.
9
Significant improvement
23 people found this helpful
The depression killer! I have experienced depression all my life. Methyl folate has significantly aided me in overcoming depression and mood swings. Its potency surpasses most other products, which is sufficient to do the job. Additionally, I take choline for better nerve transmission and exercise daily, yielding numerous benefits that I can't list fully here. My doctor was astonished by my progress. I hope this assists you in your journey.
8
Effective supplement
I’ve been taking this for my depression because a genetic test indicated I have issues converting folic acid. I highly recommend this product.
7.5
Essential cofactor
1 people found this helpful
Don’t run out of folate! Methyl folate is a vital cofactor for producing serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, substances crucial for mood regulation. Low levels of these in the body are linked with depression.
7
Combination therapy shows promise
Effect of combination therapy of methylfolate with antidepressants in patients with depressive disorder.
We investigated how effective combining low-dose methylfolate with standard antidepressants is for treating depressive disorder.
In an open-label trial involving 44 patients, one group received traditional antidepressants while the other received the same medications along with methylfolate for four weeks.
We found that this combination therapy could be a safe and effective approach, potentially improving patient outcomes.
9
Folic acid aids depression treatment
Folate as adjunct therapy to SSRI/SNRI for major depressive disorder: Systematic review & meta-analysis.
We examined the effects of folic acid as an add-on treatment for major depression alongside traditional medications like SSRIs and SNRIs. After reviewing six randomized control trials, we found that patients receiving folic acid showed better progress.
Specifically, their depression scores improved significantly, with higher response and remission rates as well. This suggests that adding folic acid might enhance the benefits of standard depression therapies, giving hope to those looking for more effective treatment options.
8
Folate's role in depression treatment
Folate supplementation as a beneficial add-on treatment in relieving depressive symptoms: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses.
We conducted an umbrella meta-analysis to explore how folate affects depression. By sifting through various studies up to October 2023 from multiple databases like PubMed and Scopus, we wanted to find a clear answer regarding folate supplementation's role in alleviating depressive symptoms.
Our analysis included 11 relevant studies, out of which 8 underwent a quantitative review. The findings were promising: folate supplementation showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, with results suggesting an effect size that indicates moderate improvement. Specifically, the standardized mean difference was -0.42, and the weighted mean difference was -3.20, demonstrating a notable benefit with very little variability between studies.
Additionally, we found that those with low folate levels had a 35% higher chance of experiencing depression compared to their counterparts with adequate levels. This suggests a strong link between folate insufficiency and depressive symptoms.
Overall, our findings support the idea that folate supplementation could be an effective adjunct treatment when combined with standard depression therapies, providing individuals with another tool to manage their mental health.
References
Siddique A, Khokhar MM, Waheed A, Naeem U, Aziz SA. Effect of combination therapy of methylfolate with antidepressants in patients with depressive disorder. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol. 2025;26:14. doi:10.1186/s40360-025-00846-x
Guo Q, Wang Y, Guo L, Xu K, Shang S. Association of serum total folate and serum vitamin D concentrations with W-shape in depressed older adults with cognitive dysfunction: A cross-sectional observational study. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2025;65:50. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.11.021
Marinina KS, Bezprozvanny IB, Egorova PA. A combination of chlorzoxazone and folic acid improves recognition memory, anxiety and depression in SCA3-84Q mice. Hum Mol Genet. 2024;33:1406. doi:10.1093/hmg/ddae079
Lagzi N, Bateni A, Goli R, Talebiazar N. The effect of multivitamins on anxiety and depression in patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Int J Psychiatry Med. 2023;58:576. doi:10.1177/00912174231179320
Tuo LJ, Song XY, Zhu YY, He HN, Song YP, et al. Gestational folic acid supplement prevents vitamin D deficiency-induced depression-like behavior by reversing cortical DNA hypomethylation in adult offspring. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2023;231:106313. doi:10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106313
Pan LA, Segreti AM, Wrobleski J, Shaw A, Hyland K, et al. Metabolomic disorders: confirmed presence of potentially treatable abnormalities in patients with treatment refractory depression and suicidal behavior. Psychol Med. 2023;53:6046. doi:10.1017/S0033291722003233
Jin X, Cheng Z, Yu X, Tao Q, Huang R, et al. Continuous supplementation of folic acid in pregnancy and the risk of perinatal depression-A meta-analysis. J Affect Disord. 2022;302:258. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2022.01.080
Lam NSK, Long XX, Li X, Saad M, Lim F, et al. The potential use of folate and its derivatives in treating psychiatric disorders: A systematic review. Biomed Pharmacother. 2022;146:112541. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112541
Maruf AA, Poweleit EA, Brown LC, Strawn JR, Bousman CA. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of L-Methylfolate Augmentation in Depressive Disorders. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2022;55:139. doi:10.1055/a-1681-2047
Altaf R, Gonzalez I, Rubino K, Nemec EC. Folate as adjunct therapy to SSRI/SNRI for major depressive disorder: Systematic review & meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med. 2021;61:102770. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102770
Budni J, Moretti M, Freitas AE, Neis VB, Ribeiro CM, et al. Behavioral and neurochemical effects of folic acid in a mouse model of depression induced by TNF-α. Behav Brain Res. 2021;414:113512. doi:10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113512
Saxena PP, Kyomen H. Leucovorin as an Antidepressant Adjunct in Elderly Inpatients With Treatment-resistant Depression. Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. 2021;23. doi:10.4088/PCC.20m02767
Mahdavifar B, Hosseinzadeh M, Salehi-Abargouei A, Mirzaei M, Vafa M. Dietary intake of B vitamins and their association with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms: A cross-sectional, population-based survey. J Affect Disord. 2021;288:92. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2021.03.055
Falade J, Onaolapo AY, Onaolapo OJ. Evaluation of the Behavioural, Antioxidative and Histomorphological Effects of Folic Acid-supplemented Diet in Dexamethasone-induced Depression in Mice. Cent Nerv Syst Agents Med Chem. 2021;21:73. doi:10.2174/1871524921666210114125355
Yang Y, Qi H, Zhang J, Jia J, Yang Y, et al. Evaluating the association of depressive symptoms on serum folate and erythrocyte folate levels based on the 2017-2020 NHANES database. Front Nutr. 2025;12:1505700. doi:10.3389/fnut.2025.1505700
Xiong Y, Zhou G, Zhou L, Guo M, Lu H. Serum molecules of the folate-driven one-carbon cycle as indicators of depressive tendencies in the elderly. Heliyon. 2024;10:e36980. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36980
Liu M, Wang G, Jiang C. Independent and combined effect of serum copper and folate on depression: cross-sectional data from the NHANES 2011-2016. Front Nutr. 2024;11:1389480. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1389480
Gao S, Khalid A, Amini-Salehi E, Radkhah N, Jamilian P, et al. Folate supplementation as a beneficial add-on treatment in relieving depressive symptoms: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12:3806. doi:10.1002/fsn3.4073