Hydroxocobalamin, also known as vitamin B12, is a vitamin found in food and is also used as a dietary supplement. Vitamin B12 helps the body use fats and carbohydrates for energy and make new protein.
Dosage Strength
- This medication is typically given as an injection into the muscle or intravenously. Dosage depends on the person and their health condition. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking this product.
General Information
What Is Hydroxocobalamin?
Hydroxocobalamin, also known as vitamin B12, is a vitamin found in food and is also used as a dietary supplement. Vitamin B12 is used in the human body to utilize fats and carbohydrates for energy and make new protein.
Low levels of vitamin B12 can lead to fatigue and anemia in milder cases. More serious B12 deficiencies have the potential to impair heart and neurological function, leading to a wide range of serious symptoms, including but not limited to tinnitus, severe joint pain, memory problems, depression, anxiety, poor muscle function, ataxia, and changes in reflexes. Infertility can also occur in individuals with insufficient B12, as well as delayed growth and development in young children. Early intervention and treatment of B12 deficiencies are key to maintaining healthy bodily function.
What Is Hydroxocobalamin Used For?
Many people take hydroxocobalamin to help with their energy levels or for other various health conditions. Some of these conditions include pernicious anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, cognitive impairment, Leber’s optic atrophy, toxic amblyopia, or cyanide poisoning. Most people get enough vitamin B12 through diet, but some require supplementation.
Indications
Hydroxocobalamin is indicated for patients with vitamin B12 deficiency, cyanide poisoning, pernicious anemia, Leber’s optic atrophy, chronic fatigue, toxic amblyopia, or cognitive impairment.
Side Effects
- – Pain at the injection site
- – Mild diarrhea
- – Itching
- – Feeling of body swelling
- – Low blood potassium
- – High blood pressure
Dosage
This medication is typically given as an injection into the muscle or intravenously. The dosage depends on the person and their health condition. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking this product.
Contraindications
Hydroxocobalamin is contraindicated in people with low blood potassium, allergy to vitamin B12, or with an allergy to cobalt. Before using this medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially of low potassium, gout, blood disorders (polycythemia vera), eye disorders (Leber’s disease), or other vitamin or mineral deficiencies.
If pregnant or breastfeeding, be sure to discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
Interactions
Some products may interact with hydroxocobalamin. These include drugs affecting blood cell production (chloramphenicol, anticancer, or HIV drugs) and other vitamin and mineral supplements (especially folic acid).
Certain drugs may also interfere with lab tests for vitamin B12 levels. This may cause false test results. If you are taking any anti-infective drugs, such as amoxicillin or erythromycin, make sure to let laboratory personnel know prior to testing.