levoleucovorin is the levo isomeric form of racemic d,l-leucovorin, present as the calcium salt. levoleucovorin is the pharmacologically active isomer of leucovorin [(6-S)-leucovorin].

levoleucovorin for injection contains levoleucovorin calcium, which is one of several active, chemically reduced derivatives of folic acid. It is useful as antidote to the inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase by methotrexate. This compound has the chemical designation calcium (6S)-N-{4-[[(2-amino-5-formyl-1,4,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-4-oxo-6-pteridinyl)methyl] amino]benzoyl-L-glutamate pentahydrate. The molecular weight is 601.6 and the structural formula is:

Its molecular formula is: C₂₀H₂₁CaN₇O₇ 5 H₂O.

levoleucovorin for injection is supplied as a sterile lyophilized powder consisting of 64 mg levoleucovorin calcium pentahydrate (equivalent to 50 mg levoleucovorin) and 50 mg mannitol per 50 mg vial.

Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrocholoric acid are used to adjust the pH during manufacture. It is intended for intravenous administration after reconstitution with 5.3 mL of sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP [See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/31/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.