Cyanocobalamin

Generic name: Cyanocobalamin (oral)
Drug class: Vitamins

Usage of Cyanocobalamin

Cyanocobalamin, also known as Vitamin B12, is a form of vitamin B found in foods. Vitamin B12 is important for growth, cell reproduction and energy, healthy red blood cell formation and to keep your nerve cells healthy.

Cyanocobalamin is likely effective in alternative medicine as an aid in treating or preventing low levels of vitamin B12 in your body. Low levels of Vitamin B12 can be caused by an autoimmune disease, pernicious anemia, certain types of surgery, stomach disorders, or malnutrition.

Cyanocobalamin has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating canker sores, and may help lower homocysteine levels in blood (a risk factor for heart disease).

Cyanocobalamin has also been used to treat memory and thinking problems, Alzheimer's disease, reduce falls, help with bone health, cataracts, and sleep disorders. However, research has shown that cyanocobalamin may not be effective in treating these conditions.

Cyanocobalamin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Cyanocobalamin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Cyanocobalamin

You should not use cyanocobalamin if you are allergic to vitamin B12, cobalamin, or cobalt.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have ever had:

any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption);

cancer; or

if you use a blood thinner (such as warfarin).

Ask a doctor before using cyanocobalamin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give cyanocobalamin to a child without medical advice.

Relate drugs

How to use Cyanocobalamin

Usual Adult Dose for Pernicious Anemia:

Initial dose: 100 mcg intramuscularly or deep subcutaneous once a day for 6 to 7 daysIf clinical improvement and reticulocyte response is seen from the above dosing:-100 mcg every other day for 7 doses, then:-100 mcg every 3 to 4 days for 2 to 3 weeks, then:Maintenance dose: 100 to 1000 mcg monthlyDuration of therapy: LifeComments:-Administer concomitant folic acid if needed.-Chronic treatment should be done with an oral preparation in patients with normal intestinal absorption.

Usual Adult Dose for B12 Nutritional Deficiency:

25 to 2000 mcg orally daily

Usual Adult Dose for Schilling Test:

1000 mcg intramuscularly is the flushing dose

Usual Pediatric Dose for B12 Nutritional Deficiency:

0.5 to 3 mcg daily

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What other drugs will affect Cyanocobalamin

Do not use cyanocobalamin without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

vitamin C supplements;

folic acid;

potassium supplements;

oral diabetes medicine that contains metformin; or

medicines that reduce stomach acid, such as cimetidine, omeprazole, lansoprazole, Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Zantac, and others.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect cyanocobalamin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Disclaimer

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