Quatrefolic (5-MTHF Glucosamine Salt)

Quatrefolic is the glucosamine salt form of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), the active form of folate that bypasses genetic mutations in folate metabolism. It directly supports methylation processes, neurotransmitter synthesis, and homocysteine metabolism without requiring enzymatic conversion.

Origin & History

Quatrefolic is a patented form of folate, specifically 5-MTHF, which is the active form of folic acid, designed for improved absorption and bioavailability.

Historical & Cultural Context

Folate has been a crucial nutrient historically, with its importance recognized in preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.

Health Benefits

- Supports mental health by enhancing neurotransmitter synthesis, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. This is crucial for emotional well-being. - Enhances cardiovascular health by lowering homocysteine levels, reducing the risk of heart disease by up to 20%. This supports a healthy heart and circulatory system. - Boosts energy levels by improving cellular metabolism, leading to increased vitality and reduced fatigue. This is essential for an active lifestyle. - Supports fetal development by providing bioavailable folate, crucial for preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy. This is vital for maternal and fetal health. - Improves cognitive function by supporting brain health, which can enhance memory and focus. This is important for maintaining mental acuity. - Promotes healthy aging by supporting DNA synthesis and repair, which can reduce the risk of age-related diseases. - Enhances detoxification by supporting liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins from the body.

How It Works

Quatrefolic delivers 5-methyltetrahydrofolate directly to cellular methylation cycles, bypassing the MTHFR enzyme that converts folic acid to its active form. It serves as a methyl donor in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine and supports the synthesis of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine through the methylation of tetrahydrobiopterin.

Scientific Research

Studies have shown that Quatrefolic is more bioavailable than traditional folic acid, supporting its use in folate supplementation, especially for those with MTHFR mutations.

Clinical Summary

Clinical trials with 5-MTHF supplementation show significant improvements in depression scores, with doses of 15mg daily demonstrating efficacy as adjunctive therapy in treatment-resistant depression. Cardiovascular studies indicate that 5-MTHF supplementation can reduce homocysteine levels by 13-20% within 8-12 weeks. The glucosamine salt form (Quatrefolic) shows superior stability and bioavailability compared to calcium salt forms in pharmacokinetic studies.

Nutritional Profile

Quatrefolic (5-MTHF Glucosamine Salt) is a patented, fourth-generation folate compound consisting of the glucosamine salt of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the biologically active form of folate. It is not a macronutrient source and contains negligible calories, fat, protein, or carbohydrates at supplemental doses. Primary bioactive compound: (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), the reduced, metabolically active form of vitamin B9/folate, typically standardized to provide 400–1000 mcg of 5-MTHF per dose in commercial supplements. Unlike synthetic folic acid, 5-MTHF requires no hepatic conversion via dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), making it immediately bioavailable regardless of MTHFR gene polymorphisms (C677T, A1298C), which affect approximately 40–60% of the global population. The glucosamine salt carrier enhances water solubility, stability across a pH range of 3–7, and gastrointestinal absorption compared to calcium salt forms of 5-MTHF. Bioavailability is estimated at approximately 1.7–2x greater than folic acid in individuals with MTHFR polymorphisms. It provides no meaningful dietary fiber, minerals, or fat-soluble vitamins. Trace amounts of glucosamine are present as the counterion but at sub-therapeutic levels (well below the 1500 mg/day used in joint health studies). No significant vitamin or mineral co-factors are intrinsic to the compound itself.

Preparation & Dosage

Typical dosage ranges from 400 to 800 mcg per day. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

Synergy & Pairings

Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Choline

Safety & Interactions

Quatrefolic is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, though some individuals may experience initial mood changes or sleep disturbances as neurotransmitter levels adjust. It may interact with antifolate medications like methotrexate and could potentially mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms. Pregnant women should consult healthcare providers before supplementation, though folate is essential during pregnancy. Individuals with bipolar disorder should use caution as folate supplementation may trigger manic episodes.