Can You Take Folate and PABA Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) is a precursor used by gut bacteria to synthesize folate. High-dose PABA supplementation may interfere with folate metabolism by competing with folate analogs at the dihydropteroate synthase level, and may alter the ratio of folate forms in circulation.

How to arrange timing

Monitor folate status when supplementing high-dose PABA. Consider folate co-supplementation.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Hendler SS, Rorvik DR. PDR for Nutritional Supplements. 2nd ed. Thomson Reuters; 2008

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.