Can You Take Folic Acid (Synthetic) and Vitamin B12 Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

High-dose synthetic folic acid can mask the hematological signs of vitamin B12 deficiency (megaloblastic anemia) while neurological damage progresses undetected. Folic acid corrects the anemia but does not address B12-dependent methylation.

How to arrange timing

Always ensure adequate B12 status before or during high-dose folic acid supplementation; regular B12 testing is advisable.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Reynolds E. Vitamin B12, folic acid, and the nervous system. Lancet Neurol. 2006;5(11):949-960

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.