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
- joint pain,
- dizziness,
- headache, and
- cold symptoms.
Other side effects include:
- severe allergic reactions,
- diarrhea, and
- heart failure.
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.
QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.”
See Answer
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).