Vitamin b12 pill side effects. Vitamin B12 Supplement Side Effects: Understanding Risks and Benefits
What are the potential side effects of vitamin B12 supplements. How much vitamin B12 do you need daily. Can vitamin B12 interact with other medications. How to safely incorporate vitamin B12 into your diet.
The Importance of Vitamin B12 and Its Functions in the Body
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial nutrient that plays a vital role in various bodily functions. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and proper neurological function. While most people obtain sufficient amounts of vitamin B12 through their diet, some individuals may require supplements to maintain optimal levels.
Why is vitamin B12 so important for our health? Here are some key functions:
- Supports the formation of red blood cells
- Aids in DNA synthesis and cell division
- Promotes proper nervous system function
- Helps in the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids
- Supports bone health and prevents osteoporosis
Despite its significance, many people are unaware of the potential side effects that can occur when taking vitamin B12 supplements. It’s crucial to understand both the benefits and risks associated with supplementation to make informed decisions about your health.

Common Side Effects of Vitamin B12 Supplements
While vitamin B12 is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly when using injectable forms or high-dose supplements. It’s important to be aware of these potential adverse reactions:
- Mild diarrhea
- Itching
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
These side effects are typically mild and may subside as your body adjusts to the supplement. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
Are there any serious side effects of vitamin B12 supplements?
While rare, some individuals may experience more severe side effects, particularly with injectable vitamin B12. These can include:
- Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure (early in treatment)
- Vein thrombosis
- Sensation of swelling
- Polycythemia vera (a rare, slow-growing blood cancer)
It’s crucial to note that these serious side effects are extremely uncommon. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms after starting vitamin B12 supplementation, seek medical attention immediately.

Allergic Reactions to Vitamin B12: What You Need to Know
Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to vitamin B12 supplements. These reactions can range from mild to severe and may include symptoms such as:
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Hives or itching
- Chest tightness
- Rapid heartbeat
If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction after taking vitamin B12, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, requires immediate treatment.
Who is at risk for vitamin B12 allergies?
Individuals with known sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B12, cobalt, or any other ingredients in the supplement are at higher risk for allergic reactions. If you have a history of allergies, it’s essential to discuss vitamin B12 supplementation with your healthcare provider before starting any new regimen.
Vitamin B12 Interactions: Medications and Supplements to Watch Out For
Certain medications and supplements can interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of vitamin B12. Being aware of these interactions can help you optimize your vitamin B12 intake and avoid potential complications.

Which medications can affect vitamin B12 levels?
The following medications may reduce the absorption or serum levels of vitamin B12:
- Colchicine
- Metformin
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Vitamin C
- Chloramphenicol
- H2 blockers
- Aminosalicylic acid
If you’re taking any of these medications, you may need to adjust your vitamin B12 supplementation or timing. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing these interactions.
Can other supplements interfere with vitamin B12?
Folic acid supplements may interfere with vitamin B12 absorption. If you’re taking both folic acid and vitamin B12, it’s important to inform your doctor. They may recommend taking these supplements at different times of the day to ensure optimal absorption of both nutrients.
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin B12
Understanding the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining optimal health and avoiding potential side effects from excessive supplementation. The National Institutes of Health provides the following RDAs for vitamin B12:

- 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for individuals 14 years or older
- 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
- 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women
For adults over 50 years of age, it’s recommended to obtain the RDA through fortified foods or supplements containing 25 to 100 mcg of vitamin B12, as absorption may decrease with age.
How can you meet your daily vitamin B12 requirements through diet?
Many foods are rich in vitamin B12, making it possible to meet your daily requirements through a balanced diet. Some excellent sources of vitamin B12 include:
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Liver
- Kidney
- Red meat
By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can help ensure adequate vitamin B12 intake without relying solely on supplements.
Safe Supplementation: Guidelines for Taking Vitamin B12
If you’re considering vitamin B12 supplementation, it’s essential to follow safe practices to minimize the risk of side effects and optimize the benefits. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
- Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen
- Follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by your doctor or on the product label
- If you’re taking other medications or supplements, discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider
- Consider getting your vitamin B12 levels tested to determine if supplementation is necessary
- Choose a reputable brand of vitamin B12 supplements to ensure quality and safety
Remember that while vitamin B12 is generally safe, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional medical advice when in doubt.

Is it possible to overdose on vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is water-soluble, which means that excess amounts are typically excreted in urine. However, taking extremely high doses of vitamin B12 supplements may lead to side effects or complications. It’s important to stick to the recommended dosage and avoid self-prescribing large amounts of any supplement without medical supervision.
Special Considerations for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Vitamin B12 is crucial for fetal development and infant health. Pregnant and breastfeeding women often have increased nutritional needs, including higher requirements for vitamin B12. While vitamin B12 is generally considered safe during pregnancy and lactation, it’s essential to follow appropriate guidelines:
- Pregnant women should aim for 2.6 mcg of vitamin B12 daily
- Breastfeeding women should consume 2.8 mcg of vitamin B12 daily
- Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen during pregnancy or while breastfeeding
- Inform your doctor if you’re taking any other medications or supplements to avoid potential interactions
Adequate vitamin B12 intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding can help prevent neural tube defects, support proper fetal growth, and ensure optimal nutrition for both mother and child.

Are there any specific risks for pregnant women taking vitamin B12 supplements?
When taken as recommended, vitamin B12 supplements are generally considered safe for pregnant women. However, as with any supplement, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new regimen. They can assess your individual needs and potential risks based on your health status and other factors.
Monitoring and Managing Vitamin B12 Side Effects
If you experience any side effects after starting vitamin B12 supplementation, it’s important to take appropriate action. Here are some steps to consider:
- Discontinue use of the supplement immediately if you notice any adverse effects
- Monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical attention if they worsen or become severe
- Consult your healthcare provider to determine the cause of the side effects and discuss alternative options
- Consider adjusting the dosage or form of vitamin B12 under medical supervision
- Explore dietary sources of vitamin B12 as an alternative to supplements
Remember that everyone’s nutritional needs and responses to supplements can vary. What works for one person may not be suitable for another, which is why personalized medical advice is crucial.

How long do vitamin B12 side effects typically last?
In most cases, side effects from vitamin B12 supplements subside once you stop taking the supplement. However, the duration can vary depending on the individual and the specific side effect. If symptoms persist or worsen after discontinuing the supplement, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying conditions or complications.
By understanding the potential side effects of vitamin B12 supplements and following safe supplementation practices, you can make informed decisions about your health and nutrition. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to address any concerns you may have about vitamin B12 supplementation or side effects.
Vitamin B-12 Side Effects
Vitamin B-12 Side Effects
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Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph.
D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023
Your doctor will give you the right dosage of vitamin B-12 supplement, especially if you will inject it. Taking too much can cause side effects like nausea, headache, dizziness, and in rarely, blood clots or cancer.
Everyone needs vitamin B-12, and most people get enough through their diet. However, it’s important to know what side effects occur when you take too much.
Vitamin B-12 is water-soluble and absorbed in the intestines. After it’s absorbed, it’s used to make DNA and red blood cells. Vitamin B-12 that isn’t being used is stored in the liver. But if you take supplements, you might ingest more than your body needs.
Oral vitamin B-12 is safe to take at recommended doses for healthy people.
Injectable vitamin B-12, which is used to treat significant deficiencies, can cause the following side effects:
- mild diarrhea
- itching
- skin rash
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea
- vomiting
- pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment
- vein thrombosis
- sensation of swelling
- polycythemia vera (rare, slow growing blood cancer)
Vitamin B-12 can cause very rare but serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
This includes swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. If this occurs after you take vitamin B-12, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
Some agents are linked to reduced absorption or serum levels of vitamin B-12. You may need vitamin B-12 supplements if you take any of the following:
- colchicine
- metformin
- proton pump inhibitors
- vitamin C
- chloramphenicol
- h3 blockers
- aminosalicylic acid
Folic acid supplements may interfere with vitamin B-12. Be sure to tell your doctor if you take folic acid.
You may need to take vitamin B-12 separately from the above drugs and supplements — say, one in the morning and one at night — so you can get the full dose of vitamin B-12.
Don’t take vitamin B-12 supplements if you have sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B-12, cobalt, and any other ingredients. Vitamin B-12 is safe to take in recommended dosages if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you notice any adverse effects after you start taking vitamin B-12 supplements, you should discontinue use immediately. Seek medical attention if your symptoms get worse or are severe.
You can consult your doctor to establish an appropriate dose if it’s determined that you don’t get enough B-12 from food sources.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dietary amounts (RDAs) are as follows:
- 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for ages 14 years or older
- 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
- 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women
If you’re over the age of 50, you should try to get your RDA by eating foods with B-12 or by taking a supplement containing 25 to 100 mcg of B-12.
Foods with vitamin B-12 include:
- eggs
- cheese
- fish
- shellfish
- liver
- kidney
- red meat
See your doctor if you have bothersome side effects that don’t go away once you stop taking the supplements.
Avoid taking supplements if possible, and try to get B-12 from food sources.
If you develop any side effects from taking vitamin B-12, you can stop taking the supplement and the symptoms should subside.
After this, you’ll need to determine either an appropriate dose or how to get the vitamin B-12 you need from food sources. You can discuss this with your doctor.
Article resources
- Cyanocobalamin – cyanocobalamin injection. (2023). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a66eb3c4-3e1d-4d49-b963-4fa2334cc9b6
- Vitamin B12: Fact sheet for health professionals. (2022). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
Last medically reviewed on June 8, 2023
How we reviewed this article:
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Current Version
Jun 8, 2023
Written By
Emily Cronkleton
Edited By
John Bassham
Medically Reviewed By
Jared Meacham, Ph.
D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS
Copy Edited By
Copy Editors
Feb 15, 2023
Written By
Emily Cronkleton
Edited By
Frank Crooks
VIEW ALL HISTORY
Share this article
Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph.D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023
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Vitamin B-12 Side Effects
Vitamin B-12 Side Effects
- Health Conditions
- Featured
- Breast Cancer
- IBD
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Articles
- Acid Reflux
- ADHD
- Allergies
- Alzheimer’s & Dementia
- Bipolar Disorder
- Cancer
- Crohn’s Disease
- Chronic Pain
- Cold & Flu
- COPD
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Heart Disease
- High Cholesterol
- HIV
- Hypertension
- IPF
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriasis
- Skin Disorders and Care
- STDs
- Featured
- Discover
- Wellness Topics
- Nutrition
- Fitness
- Skin Care
- Sexual Health
- Women’s Health
- Mental Well-Being
- Sleep
- Product Reviews
- Vitamins & Supplements
- Sleep
- Mental Health
- Nutrition
- At-Home Testing
- CBD
- Men’s Health
- Original Series
- Fresh Food Fast
- Diagnosis Diaries
- You’re Not Alone
- Present Tense
- Video Series
- Youth in Focus
- Healthy Harvest
- No More Silence
- Future of Health
- Wellness Topics
- Plan
- Health Challenges
- Mindful Eating
- Sugar Savvy
- Move Your Body
- Gut Health
- Mood Foods
- Align Your Spine
- Find Care
- Primary Care
- Mental Health
- OB-GYN
- Dermatologists
- Neurologists
- Cardiologists
- Orthopedists
- Lifestyle Quizzes
- Weight Management
- Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
- Are You a Workaholic?
- How Well Do You Sleep?
- Tools & Resources
- Health News
- Find a Diet
- Find Healthy Snacks
- Drugs A-Z
- Health A-Z
- Health Challenges
- Connect
- Breast Cancer
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Psoriasis
Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph.
D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023
Your doctor will give you the right dosage of vitamin B-12 supplement, especially if you will inject it. Taking too much can cause side effects like nausea, headache, dizziness, and in rarely, blood clots or cancer.
Everyone needs vitamin B-12, and most people get enough through their diet. However, it’s important to know what side effects occur when you take too much.
Vitamin B-12 is water-soluble and absorbed in the intestines. After it’s absorbed, it’s used to make DNA and red blood cells. Vitamin B-12 that isn’t being used is stored in the liver. But if you take supplements, you might ingest more than your body needs.
Oral vitamin B-12 is safe to take at recommended doses for healthy people.
Injectable vitamin B-12, which is used to treat significant deficiencies, can cause the following side effects:
- mild diarrhea
- itching
- skin rash
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea
- vomiting
- pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment
- vein thrombosis
- sensation of swelling
- polycythemia vera (rare, slow growing blood cancer)
Vitamin B-12 can cause very rare but serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
This includes swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. If this occurs after you take vitamin B-12, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
Some agents are linked to reduced absorption or serum levels of vitamin B-12. You may need vitamin B-12 supplements if you take any of the following:
- colchicine
- metformin
- proton pump inhibitors
- vitamin C
- chloramphenicol
- h3 blockers
- aminosalicylic acid
Folic acid supplements may interfere with vitamin B-12. Be sure to tell your doctor if you take folic acid.
You may need to take vitamin B-12 separately from the above drugs and supplements — say, one in the morning and one at night — so you can get the full dose of vitamin B-12.
Don’t take vitamin B-12 supplements if you have sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B-12, cobalt, and any other ingredients. Vitamin B-12 is safe to take in recommended dosages if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you notice any adverse effects after you start taking vitamin B-12 supplements, you should discontinue use immediately. Seek medical attention if your symptoms get worse or are severe.
You can consult your doctor to establish an appropriate dose if it’s determined that you don’t get enough B-12 from food sources.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dietary amounts (RDAs) are as follows:
- 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for ages 14 years or older
- 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
- 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women
If you’re over the age of 50, you should try to get your RDA by eating foods with B-12 or by taking a supplement containing 25 to 100 mcg of B-12.
Foods with vitamin B-12 include:
- eggs
- cheese
- fish
- shellfish
- liver
- kidney
- red meat
See your doctor if you have bothersome side effects that don’t go away once you stop taking the supplements.
Avoid taking supplements if possible, and try to get B-12 from food sources.
If you develop any side effects from taking vitamin B-12, you can stop taking the supplement and the symptoms should subside.
After this, you’ll need to determine either an appropriate dose or how to get the vitamin B-12 you need from food sources. You can discuss this with your doctor.
Article resources
- Cyanocobalamin – cyanocobalamin injection. (2023). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a66eb3c4-3e1d-4d49-b963-4fa2334cc9b6
- Vitamin B12: Fact sheet for health professionals. (2022). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
Last medically reviewed on June 8, 2023
How we reviewed this article:
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Current Version
Jun 8, 2023
Written By
Emily Cronkleton
Edited By
John Bassham
Medically Reviewed By
Jared Meacham, Ph.
D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS
Copy Edited By
Copy Editors
Feb 15, 2023
Written By
Emily Cronkleton
Edited By
Frank Crooks
VIEW ALL HISTORY
Share this article
Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph.D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023
Read this next
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Weight Gain — What to Know
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Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause various symptoms, and you may wonder whether weight gain is among them. This article reviews whether a vitamin B12…
READ MORE
- What Is a Vitamin B-12 Test?
Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT
A vitamin B-12 test measures the amount of B-12 in your blood. Find out what your B-12 results mean and how to optimize your B-12 intake.
READ MORE
- Vitamin B12 (folate deficiency anemia) Signs and Symptoms
By Jillian Kubala, MS, RD
Vitamin B12 is an important water-soluble vitamin that many people are deficient in.
Here are nine signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.READ MORE
- Vitamin B12 Dosage: How Much Should You Take per Day?
By Melissa Groves
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READ MORE
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READ MORE
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By Keith Pearson, PhD, RD
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READ MORE
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By Ansley Hill, RD, LD
Argan oil has a subtle, nutty flavor and a wide array of potential health benefits. Here are 12 of the most prominent health benefits and uses of…
READ MORE
- 7 Emerging Benefits of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)
By Ryan Raman, MS, RD
Bacopa monnieri is a plant that has been associated with a host of health benefits, including enhanced brain function and reduced stress levels.
Here…READ MORE
- 8 Best Personalized Vitamin Subscription Services of 2023, According to Dietitians
By SaVanna Shoemaker, MS, RDN, LD
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Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) – instructions for use, doses, side effects, reviews of the drug:
Description of the drug in 1998
Date of approval: 07/31/1998
Content
- Active substance
- ATX
- Pharmacological group
- Nosological classification (ICD-10)
- Composition and form of release
- pharmachologic effect
- pharmachologic effect
- Indications
- Contraindications
- Dosage and administration
- Side effects
- Interaction
- Precautionary measures
- Storage conditions
- Best before date
- Reviews
Active ingredient
Cyanocobalamin* (Cyanocobalamin*)
ATX
B03BA01 Cyanocobalamin
Pharmacological group
Stimulants of hematopoiesis
Vitamins and vitamin-like products
Nosological classification (ICD-10)
ICD-10 code list
Composition and formulation
1 ml solution for injection contains cyanocobalamin (vitamin B 12 ) 200 or 500 mcg; in ampoules of 1 ml, in a cardboard box 10 pcs.
Pharmacological action
Pharmacological action –
hematopoietic , stimulating cell metabolism .
Participates in the transfer of methyl fragments, the formation of choline, methionine, creatine, nucleic acids, the maturation of erythrocytes, promotes the accumulation of compounds containing sulfhydryl groups in erythrocytes.
Participates in the transfer of methyl fragments, the formation of choline, methionine, creatine, nucleic acids, the maturation of erythrocytes, promotes the accumulation of compounds containing sulfhydryl groups in erythrocytes.
Indications
Anemia (Addison-Birmer, alimentary macrocytic, iron deficiency,
posthemorrhagic, aplastic, caused by toxic substances and drugs), cirrhosis of the liver,
hepatitis, myelosis, polyneuritis, sciatica, trigeminal neuralgia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, children
cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Down’s disease, skin diseases, peripheral nerve injuries.
Contraindications
Thromboembolism, angina.
Dosage and administration
Information for healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?
S/C, IM, IV and intralumbar.
Addison-Birmer anemia – 100-200 mcg every other day; with Addison-Birmer anemia with symptoms of funicular myelosis and with macrocytic anemia with disorders of the nervous system – 500 mcg or more per injection (daily for the first week, and then with intervals between injections of up to 5-7 days). Simultaneously appoint folic acid. In the period of remission, in the absence of funicular myelosis phenomena, 100 mcg is administered for maintenance therapy 2 times a month, and in the presence of neurological phenomena, 200-400 mcg 2-4 times a month.
For iron deficiency and posthemorrhagic anemia – 30-100 mcg 2-3 times a week; with aplastic anemia (especially in children) – 100 mcg until the onset of clinical and hematological improvement; with alimentary anemia in children at an early age and in premature babies – 30 mcg / day for 15 days.
In diseases of the central nervous system and neurological diseases with pain syndrome, it is administered in increasing doses from 200 to 500 mcg per injection, and when the condition improves, 100 mcg/day; course – up to 2 weeks.
In traumatic lesions of the peripheral nerves – 200-400 mcg every other day for 40-45 days.
For hepatitis and liver cirrhosis, 30–60 mcg per day or 100 mcg every other day for 25–40 days.
With dystrophies in young children, Down’s disease and cerebral palsy – 15-30 mcg every other day.
In case of funicular myelosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, sometimes 15-30 mcg is injected into the spinal canal (gradually increasing the dose to 200-250 mcg).
Side effects
Excitation, pain in the heart, tachycardia, allergic reactions.
Interactions
Information for healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?
Incompatible (in one syringe) with thiamine bromide, riboflavin.
Precautions
In angina pectoris, use with caution and in lower doses.
Storage conditions
In a place protected from light.
Keep out of reach of children.
Expiry date
2 years.
Do not use after the expiry date which is stated on the packaging.
Update date: 30.04.2020
Vitamin B12 ampoules: instructions for use
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Vitamin B12 in ampoules: instructions for use
Content:
- The role of vitamin B12 in the body
- Indications for use of cyanocobalamin
- Treatment regimen with cyanocobalamin
- How to inject
- Storage conditions of vitamin B12 in ampoules
- Dosage of vitamin B12 in ampoules
- Contraindications and side effects
Lack of vitamin B12 leads to a number of diseases. This is an important substance for the functioning of all systems, which reduces susceptibility to infections, increases endurance, physical and mental activity.
The role of vitamin B12 in the body
Cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) was first discovered in 1948. Scientists isolated a new substance from raw liver and prescribed it to treat pernicious anemia.
Over the past 70 years, cyanocobalamin has been well studied by scientists and physicians, as a result of which it was possible to establish its effect on the body:
- blocking the stress hormone;
- improvement of blood clotting;
- synthesis of amino acids;
- reduction in the amount of cholesterol in the blood;
- detoxification of the body with alcoholism;
- improvement of liver function.
Cyanocobalamin helps athletes withstand heavy loads, accelerates weight loss and prevents the development of cardiovascular diseases.
It plays a special role in the functioning of the central nervous system. Vitamin complements the main therapy for cerebral palsy in children, Down’s disease, intercostal neuralgia, etc.
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Indications for use of cyanocobalamin
Vitamin B12 in ampoules is used as an additional therapy.
It enhances the effect of drugs, helps the body to overcome many diseases. In rare cases, it is prescribed as the only remedy for the prevention of anemia.
Indication for vitamin B12:
- chronic migraine;
- Down syndrome;
- cerebral palsy;
- neuralgia;
- radiation sickness;
- alcohol poisoning;
- dystrophy;
- anemia;
- radiculitis;
- diseases of the pancreas and liver;
- gastritis;
- photodermatosis;
- sclerosis.
Reception of cyanocobalamin is indicated for beriberi, frequent respiratory diseases. The lack of a substance in the body leads to a deterioration in the condition of hair, nails and teeth. For this reason, the drug is taken in ampoules not only for medical purposes, but also for cosmetic purposes.
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Cyanocobalamin regimen
When Vitamin B12 is prescribed, the Instructions for Use will help calculate the correct dosage.
The treatment regimen looks like this:
- For the prevention of anemia and vitamin deficiency – from 200 to 500 mcg per day. The course of treatment is from 7 to 15 days.
- For the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system – 200 mcg per day daily for the first 3 days. Then 300 mcg daily for 4 days.
- If cyanocobalamin is used in complex therapy, then the dosage is from 200 to 500 mcg per day.
Vitamin B12 should only be taken at the dosage recommended by your doctor. It is not recommended to use the drug on its own, since it is rather difficult to determine an individual treatment regimen.
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How to inject
Vitamin B12 injections can be given in different ways:
- subcutaneously;
- intramuscularly;
- intravenously;
- into the spinal cord.
The instructions say that cyanocobalamin cannot be used simultaneously with drugs that increase blood clotting, as well as with vitamins B1 and B6.
If there is an allergy to B1, then B12 can exacerbate it.
You can administer the drug intramuscularly and intravenously on your own. For injection into the spinal cord, you should consult an experienced doctor.
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Storage conditions for vitamin B12 ampoules
Vitamin B12 in ampoules should be stored in a dry, dark place, at an air temperature of no more than 25 degrees. Some complex preparations require storage in the refrigerator. This point must be specified in the instructions.
Do not use the substance after the expiry date stated on the package.
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Vitamin B12 dosage in ampoules
The dosage of vitamin B12 is determined individually and depends on the age of the patient. The maximum daily dose is:
- children – 400 mcg;
- adults – 1000 mcg.

The dosage increases gradually, you need to start with a small portion of the drug. This is necessary to exclude allergic reactions.
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Contraindications and side effects
Subject to the instructions for use and the doctor’s recommendations, the drug has no side effects. In exceptional cases, unpleasant symptoms may occur:
- nervous excitement;
- tachycardia;
- headache;
- pain in the region of the heart;
- increased blood pressure;
- dizziness.
If there is an individual intolerance to the drug, then an allergic reaction occurs in the form of skin itching, rash, runny nose. In the event of side effects, the injection is stopped, the treatment method is reviewed together with the doctor.
Before starting injections, you should study the list of contraindications:
- angina;
- erythrocytosis;
- thrombosis;
- varicose veins;
- pregnancy and lactation;
- haemorrhoids;
- oncological diseases.


Here are nine signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Here…
Here are nine signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Here…