Home Molecules Vitamin B12 / Mecobalamin / Cynocobalamin / Methylcobalamin

Vitamin B12 / Mecobalamin / Cynocobalamin / Methylcobalamin

Molecule Description

Vitamin B12 is also known as methylcobalamin or mecobalamin. It also has a form

known as cyanocobalamin. Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin naturally present in animal-based food such as milk, meat, eggs etc. It is also available in form of various nutritional supplements, prescription medicines and vitamin B12 fortified foods. It is one of the essential micronutrients and plays a crucial role in many bodily functions.

Uses

Precautions and Warnings

FAQs

References

Uses of Vitamin B12 / Mecobalamin / Cynocobalamin / Methylcobalamin

Methylcobalamin is used for the treatment and prevention of Vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia.
For preventing Vitamin B12 deficiency during pregnancy, breastfeeding, after surgery or in conditions of nutritional malabsorption.
It is also used in the treatment of a condition of nerve damage also known as diabetic neuropathy.

Precautions and Warnings of Vitamin B12 / Mecobalamin / Cynocobalamin / Methylcobalamin

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have any existing medical condition and you are on other medications, supplements or following any complementary or integrative health approaches.
You should not take this vitamin if you are allergic to it.
You have any planned surgery or operation. You may be asked to stop taking these products at least 2-3 weeks ahead of the procedure.
Dietary supplements containing vitamin B12 are intended to supplement the diets of some people and should not be a substitute for a well-balanced, varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the food rich in methylcobalamin?

A: Fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products are rich in vitamin B12.

Q: Does methylcobalamin interact with other medicines?

Medicines treat indigestion like antacids, medicines used to treat bacterial infections like Chloramphenicol and medicines used to treat bone problems like bisphosphonates should be taken with a minim...
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Consult your doctor if you are taking medicines like Phenytoin (used to treat epilepsy), Methotrexate (used to treat cancer), Sulfasalazine (used to treat ulcers), water pill, metformin, Omeprazole an...
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Q: What happens due to vitamin B12 deficiency?

A: Deficiency of Vitamin B12 can lead to anaemia characterized by fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss and neurological changes such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Additionally, it can lead to difficulty in maintaining balance, feeling low, confusion, dementia, poor memory, and soreness of the mouth or tongue.

References

Last Updated on: 14 Oct 2021 | 10:38 AM (IST)

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