Potential reduction in neural tube defects associated with use of Metafolin-fortified oral contraceptives in the United States

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the study was to estimate the potential reduction of neural tube defects (NTDs) through the use of Metafolin-fortified oral contraceptives (OCs) in the United States.

Study design: A population-based decision analytic model was developed to estimate the benefits of increased red blood cell (RBC) folate levels through the use of Metafolin-fortified OCs on NTD risk during pregnancy. We modeled women who began the year taking Metafolin-fortified or traditional OCs. Folate levels were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and clinical trial data. NTD risk was estimated by applying a published risk equation to respective RBC folate levels.

Results: The number of predicted NTD cases declined by 23.7% to 31.4%, depending on median baseline folate levels in women taking a fortified OC compared with taking a traditional OC.

Conclusion: Metafolin-fortified OCs have the potential to reduce the number of folate-dependent NTDs among current and recent OC users.