Methylcobalamin : Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, Precautions & More

Methylcobalamin

Methylcobalamin is the activated form of Vitamin B12, available as an oral medicine. It is prescribed for people suffering from a deficiency of vitamin B12. The aim of this vitamin is to help with the proper functioning of the brain and nerves as well as the production of red blood cells.

Methylcobalamin helps treat the deficiency of vitamin B12 by producing a substance known as “myelin”. This substance is responsible for covering nerve fibres and protecting them. Without inadequate amounts of methylcobalamin in the body, the myelin sheath cannot develop well or stay healthy.

What are the uses of Methylcobalamin?

Some of the uses of methylcobalamin are

• Methylcobalamin is prescribed for treating certain nerve problems and anaemia by restoring the levels of vitamin B12 in the body.

• Replenishment of the vitamin helps in the regeneration and improvement of damaged and irritated nerves, which can be caused by medical conditions like pernicious anaemia, neuropathy, and neuralgia.

• It is also prescribed for people who experience back pain, anaemia, or other problems related to the nervous system that can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12.

• Methylcobalamin also works as a painkiller for people with diabetes.

How and when to take Methylcobalamin?

Methylcobalamin is available as tablets and injections as well. The tablets are to be consumed orally. Do not try to swallow or chew an entire tablet or lozenge. 

• Methylcobalamin is a water-soluble vitamin. It is better absorbed in the body when taken on an empty stomach. So, you can take one in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, or 2 hours after you have eaten.

• Methylcobalamin injections are injected into a muscle. The administration is usually done 1 to 3 times a week. Follow the instructions given by your doctor. 

• Do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your doctor.

What are the side effects of Methylcobalamin?

Get immediate medical assistance in case you notice signs of an allergic reaction like difficulty in breathing, hives (itchy red bumps on the skin), or swollen lips, face, tongue, or throat. Certain common side effects of Methylcobalamin include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Nausea

• Headache

• Loss of appetite

If you face any of the mentioned (or other) side effects for a persistent period, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor for help immediately.  

What precautions are to be taken while using Methylcobalamin?

Certain precautions must be taken before any medicines are prescribed or taken by a person. In the case of methylcobalamin

• Avoid drinking alcohol in large amounts since it makes it difficult for your body to absorb methylcobalamin.

• Do not buy or consume expired tablets.

• Do not give methylcobalamin to a child without proper medical advice.

Other than the precautions mentioned above, make sure to mention the following details to your doctor before taking Methylcobalamin:

• If you are allergic to vitamin B12 or cobalt

• If you are taking any other vitamins

• If you have or used to suffer from Leber’s disease, folic acid or iron deficiency, or low levels of potassium in the blood

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying for a baby

• If you are taking any other medicines, especially chloramphenicol, colchicine, antibiotic medicines, oral diabetes medicines containing metformin, medicines that reduce stomach acid, or medicines that do not require a prescription, like Ayurvedic or herbal.

What if I miss a dose of Methylcobalamin?

There is no need to worry if you miss a dose. Take the dose as soon as you remember, but leave out the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not try to take two doses together to make up for the missed dose as it might lead to side effects.

What if you overdose on Methylcobalamin?

If you or someone you know overdoses on Methylcobalamin, immediately go to the emergency department of the nearest hospital. Take the container or sachet of the medicine with you for reference.

What are the storage conditions for Methylcobalamin?

• Store methylcobalamin in a dry and cool place, preferably at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C.

• Keep it away from direct contact with light, heat, and air.

• Keep it safely in a place that is away from children’s reach.

Can I take Methylcobalamin with other medications?

Unless prescribed by your medical practitioner or pharmacist, do not consume methylcobalamin with any other medicine. If it is prescribed to be taken with some other medicine, do not go beyond the prescribed dosage for either of the medicines.

How quickly will the Methylcobalamin tablet show results?

Typically, results can be observed within 48 to 72 hours after taking Methylcobalamin.

Comparison of Methylcobalamin with Vitamin B complex

Conclusion

It is wise to always follow the instructions provided by your doctor when consuming any medications. Keep all the medications out of reach and sight of children to avoid any mishaps.

References:

https://www.drugs.com/mtm/methylcobalamin-vitamin-b12.html https://www.practo.com/medicine-info/methylcobalamin-179-api

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.

Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Reviewed: October 8, 2020

Methylcobalamin is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is important for the brain and nerves, and for the production of red blood cells.

Methylcobalamin is sometimes used in people with pernicious anemia, diabetes, and other conditions.

Methylcobalamin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)?

You should not use methylcobalamin if you are allergic to vitamin B12 or cobalt.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• Leber’s disease or other form of optic nerve damage;
• an iron or folic acid deficiency; or
• low levels of potassium in your blood.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

User Reviews & Rating

No ratings yet for Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)

Leave a Review

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• loss of appetite; or
• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)?

Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol. Heavy drinking can make it harder for your body to absorb methylcobalamin.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)?

Use Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin), call 911

911

Find Another Drug

Search prescription drugs, over-the counter medications, and supplements

Medical Disclaimer

Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health. 

Active substance MECOBALAMINUM | Compendium – drug reference book

schema.org/SiteNavigationElement”>
• Pharmacological properties
• Indications MECOBALAMIN
• Application of MECOBALAMIN
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Special instructions
• Interactions
• Overdose
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

Medicinal preparations containing the active substance MECOBALAMIN

Diacobal

film-coated tablets 500 µg blister, № 30

Kusum

Pharmacy prices

Neurocobal ^®

90 028 film-coated tablets 500 mcg blister, № 90

Gledpharm Ltd

Prices in pharmacies

mecobalamin is one of the active forms of vitamin B ₁₂ . Vitamin B ₁₂ is essential for nuclear protein and myelin synthesis, cell reproduction, normal growth and normal erythropoiesis. Compared to other forms of vitamin B ₁₂ mecobalamin at the subcellular level is better transported to neuronal organelles. It is due to this property that it is more effective in the treatment of diseases of the nervous system.

Mecobalamin is a coenzyme of methionine synthase, an enzyme involved in the conversion of homocysteine ​​to methionine in protein and DNA methylation reactions. It is known that methylcobalamin normalizes the axonal transport of protein complexes and promotes axonal regeneration. Mecobalamin also promotes myelination of neurons by stimulating the synthesis of phospholipids. In addition, methylcobalamin restores delayed synaptic transmission and reduces the content of neurotransmitters to normal levels.

The use of therapeutic doses of mecobalamin promotes detoxification processes in the nervous system due to an increase in the content of tetrahydrofolate. Mecobalamin also promotes the conversion of homocysteine ​​to S-adenosine methionine, which is a universal donor of methyl groups, which leads to the activation of transmethylation reactions.

peripheral neuropathy

is used by mouth in adults. The recommended daily dose is 1500 mcg, which is divided into 3 doses. The duration of the course of treatment depends on the nature and course of the disease and is determined individually. In the absence of a clinical effect after continuous use of the drug for 1 month, the drug should be discontinued.

hypersensitivity to mecobalamin or other components of the drug. Erythremia, erythrocytosis. Neoplasms, except in cases accompanied by megaloblastic anemia and vitamin B deficiency ₁₂ . Acute thromboembolic diseases. Angina pectoris of a high functional class.

from the gastrointestinal tract: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

from the nervous system : irritability, headache, dizziness, migraine, severe anxiety disorders, agitation, insomnia;

from the side of the cardiovascular system: tachycardia, pain in the heart;

from the immune system: hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria, anaphylactic shock, anaphylactoid reactions;

from the musculoskeletal system: muscle pain, joint pain;

on the skin side: itching, rash, acne;

from the blood and lymphatic system: thrombosis, hypercoagulation4

general disorders: increased sweating, malaise, fever.

the drug should be used with caution in patients with allergic manifestations, liver disease in history.

Long-term use of high doses of the drug is not recommended for patients whose professional activity is associated with mercury or compounds containing mercury.

Not recommended for use with clotting agents. During the treatment period, it is necessary to monitor peripheral blood counts. Regarding patients with a tendency to thrombosis and patients with angina during treatment, care must be taken and blood clotting should be monitored.

With a tendency to develop leukocytosis and erythrocytosis, the dose of the drug must be reduced or temporarily suspended treatment.

There are no data on the negative effect of the drug on the speed of psychomotor reactions.

Simultaneous use with folic acid improves the absorption and absorption of mecobalamin.

Do not co-administer other preparations containing vitamin B ₁₂ .

Chloramphenicol reduces the hematopoietic response of reticulocytes to mecobalamin. If it is impossible to avoid such a combination, it is necessary to carefully monitor blood counts.

Medicines that may reduce vitamin B absorption ₁₂ : aminosalicylic acid, antibiotics, colchicine, cholestyramine, H-blockers mpa, zidovudine .

When used simultaneously with thiamine, the risk of developing allergic reactions caused by thiamine increases.

Oral contraceptives reduce the concentration of mecobalamin in the blood.

overdose is manifested by nausea, vomiting, dizziness, agitation, tachycardia. Treatment is symptomatic.

Mecobalamin Instructions for use

Mecobalamin

Instruction:

• Pharmacological action
• Readings
• Contraindications
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Dosage and Administration
• Side effects
• Interaction
• Precautions
• Classification

Pharmacological action

Mecobalamin – coenzyme form of vitamin B ₁₂ . Participates in the processes of transmethylation, in the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, in the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Stimulates the monooxygenase system, has a protective effect on SH-groups and activates liver glutathione transferases. It has an anabolic effect (increasing physical performance), a regenerating effect in case of mechanical and toxic damage to the nerve trunks. In diseases of the peripheral nervous system, it reduces pain, helps to restore motor functions and reduce autonomic disorders. Having a hepatoprotective effect, it has a beneficial effect on liver function in toxic hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and pancreatitis. Reduces joint damage in adjuvant arthritis, has a hematopoietic effect.

Indications

Diseases of the peripheral nervous system (complex treatment): neuralgia, polyneuropathy, radiculopathy. Chronic hepatitis, fatty degeneration of the liver, cirrhosis of the liver, chronic pancreatitis. The need to improve physical performance (including in sports).

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Method of administration and doses

Inside, in diseases of the peripheral nervous system – 10 mg 1 time per day. In the complex therapy of liver diseases and pancreatitis – 5 mg 2 times a day or 10 mg 1 time per day. The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks. If necessary, after 1 month, repeat courses of treatment are carried out. In sports medicine – 5-10 mg once a day for 2-3 weeks.

Side effects

Allergic reactions.

Interaction

The drug is pharmaceutically incompatible with ascorbic acid, heavy metal salts (inactivation), thiamine bromide, pyridoxine, riboflavin (because the cobalt ion contained in the drug molecule destroys other vitamins).

Aminoglycosides, salicylates, antiepileptics, colchicine, preparations K ⁺ reduce absorption.

Intake enhances the development of allergic reactions caused by thiamine.

Chloramphenicol reduces the hematopoietic response.

Do not combine with drugs that increase blood clotting.

Risk of developing allergic reactions in the presence of thiamine.

Precautions

Vitamin B deficiency ₁₂ must be confirmed diagnostically before prescribing the drug, as it may mask folic acid deficiency.

During treatment, it is necessary to monitor peripheral blood parameters: on the 5th–8th day of treatment, the number of reticulocytes and iron concentration are determined.

Classification

Share this page

More on the topic

Read more about the active substance Mecobalamin:

• INN
• Reviews
• Questions
• Latin name
• Chemical formula

Information about the active substance Mecobalamin is intended for medical and pharmaceutical professionals, for reference purposes only.