cyanocobalamine (Vitamin B12)

What brand names are available for cyanocobalamin?

Nascobal, Vitamin B12, VitaMelts Energy Bitamin B-12

Is cyanocobalamin available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for cyanocobalamin?

Yes

What are the side effects of cyanocobalamin?

Common side effects include

Other side effects include:

What is the dosage for cyanocobalamin?

(dosing may vary with individuals and with clinicians; doses presented here are examples for injection, not for oral or topical use) : Pernicious anemia (lifetime treatment required): 100 mcg intramuscularly or subcutaneously once daily for 6-7 days, followed by the same dose given on alternate days for seven doses, then every 3-4 days for another 2-3 months. Recommended maintenance dose is 100 mcg monthly for life.

For iron deficiency, the recommended dose is 30 mcg intramuscular injection once daily for 5-10 days then 100 to 200 mcg intramuscular injection monthly.

Which drugs or supplements interact with cyanocobalamin?

Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin) may decrease the effectiveness of cyanocobalamine. Cancer drugs may reduce the response to cyanocobalamine treatment. Use of colchicine (Colcrys) and heavy alcohol intake for longer than 2 weeks may decrease the absorption of vitamin B12.

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Is cyanocobalamin safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Cyanocobalamine has not been adequately evaluated in pregnant women. However, vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin and requirements are increased during pregnancy.

Cyanocobalamine is excreted into human milk and is safe to use while breastfeeding. Vitamin B12 requirements are increased in nursing mothers.

What else should I know about cyanocobalamin?

What preparations of cyanocobalamin are available?

Cyanocobalamine injection, 1000 mcg/mL

How should I keep cyanocobalamin stored?

Injection should be stored at 20 C - 25 C (68 F - 77 F).

Summary

Cyanocobalamine (Nascobal, Vitamin B12, VitaMelts Energy Bitamin B-12) is a supplement used to treat vitamin deficiencies due to malabsorption associated with conditions like pernicious anemia, folic acid deficiency, pancreatic and bowel cancer, and tape worm infestation. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, storage, and pregnancy and breastfeeding safety information should be reviewed prior to taking this supplement.

Treatment & Diagnosis

Medications & Supplements

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References
FDA Prescribing Information