Leucovorin and Autism: What Parents Need to Know

Leucovorin (also called folinic acid) is gaining attention in the autism community as a supportive treatment option, especially for children with functional autism who may have challenges with folate metabolism. While research is ongoing, many families and providers in functional medicine for autism are interested in how leucovorin can improve communication, behavior, and overall quality of life.

Dr. April Lam, DNP, FNP-C

8/17/20251 min read

What is Leucovorin?

Leucovorin is a bioactive form of folate (vitamin B9). Unlike folic acid, which must go through several steps in the body to become active, leucovorin is more readily available for use. This makes it especially helpful for individuals who have difficulty converting or transporting folate into the brain.

Why is Folate Important in Autism?

Studies show that some children with autism have Cerebral Folate Deficiency (CFD), meaning their brains do not receive enough folate even if their diet is adequate. This deficiency can be linked to folate receptor alpha autoantibodies (FRAAs), which block folate transport. Supporting folate levels with leucovorin can sometimes bypass this problem.

Benefits of Leucovorin in Autism

Research and clinical practice suggest that leucovorin may:

Improve speech and language development
Support social interaction
Reduce irritability and hyperactivity
Enhance cognitive function

Not every child will respond the same way, but studies and parent reports highlight leucovorin as a promising therapy in functional and integrative autism care.

Functional Medicine and Leucovorin

In a functional medicine approach to autism, providers often look for nutrient deficiencies, metabolic concerns, and immune-related factors. Testing for folate receptor antibodies and considering leucovorin supplementation may be part of a personalized treatment plan although not always needed depending on the patient health history.

Important Considerations

Leucovorin should be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider.
Dosing varies depending on the child’s needs and lab results.
Some children may experience side effects such as hyperactivity or sleep disturbances, which usually improve with dose adjustments.

About Functional Autism

At Functional Autism, Dr. April Lam, DNP, FNP-C, provides personalized functional medicine care including protocols utilizing leucovorin for children with autism and related conditions. Dr. Lam is a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in functional and integrative autism care and offers telehealth services in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Utah.

If you are interested in exploring leucovorin or other functional medicine options for your child, schedule a consultation with Dr. April Lam at Functional Autism to create a plan tailored to your child’s unique needs.