Vitamin B12 2mL

Indication

Used for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency, pernicious anemia, subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord, and peripheral neuropathy.

Ingredients

• Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) 1000 mcg per 2 mL (500 mcg/mL)

Direction

As directed by a physician. Typical adult dose: 1000 mcg intramuscularly daily for 1 week, then weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for maintenance. This is an injectable preparation.

Side effects

• Pain and burning at injection site
• Hypokalemia (with rapid correction of severe deficiency)
• Diarrhea
• Hypersensitivity reactions (urticaria
• anaphylaxis — rare)
• Acneiform skin eruptions (rare)

Precautions

• For injection use only — must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
• Use with caution in patients with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (cyanocobalamin may worsen the disease).
• Monitor serum potassium after starting treatment in severe megaloblastic anemia.
• May cause hypersensitivity reactions — have resuscitation equipment available.
• Keep out of reach of children.