Leucovorin rescue

Leucovorin rescue is a medical strategy used to reduce the side effects of certain cancer treatments, like high-dose methotrexate. Methotrexate targets and kills rapidly dividing cancer cells but can also harm normal cells, especially in the gut and kidneys. Leucovorin is a form of folinic acid that helps healthy cells recover from methotrexate’s effects by replenishing necessary nutrients they need for repair. Administered after methotrexate, leucovorin protects normal tissues while allowing the cancer-fighting drug to continue working effectively. This rescue method improves treatment safety and helps prevent serious toxicity.