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Chemical Name: Cyanocobalamin
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Vitamin B12 Injection Information: Vitamin B12 Injection 100mcg/ml (Cyanocobalamine) comes in a multi-dose vial. The 10ml size of this vial contains the equivalent of ten 1ml weekly injections. CYANOCOBALAMIN (Vitamin B12) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. Naturally occurring vitamin B12 is found in fish, seafood, milk, egg yolk and fermented cheeses. Vitamin B12 is essential to the development of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body and for the normal metabolism of fats and carbohydrates in the body. Lack of vitamin B12 can result in anemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage. Cyanocobalamin treats or prevents vitamin B12 deficiency and a resulting type of anemia, called pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia occurs in patients who do not have enough vitamin B12 in their diet (e.g., strict vegetarians) or who cannot adequately absorb the vitamin due to a defect or disease of the stomach or intestines. Generic cyanocobalamin injections are available.
Pernicious anemia requires life-long treatment to prevent a return of symptoms and permanent nerve damage.
Unless you have pernicious anemia or a condition where you cannot absorb cyanocobalamin, make sure you have a proper diet. Having vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Foods that contain vitamin B12 include fish, seafood, egg yolk, milk and fermented cheeses. There is no Vitamin B12 in any vegetables; therefore, strict vegetarians are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
There is no scientific evidence to support claims that cyanocobalamin can treat various other problems (such as allergies, mental problems, nerve disorders, skin problems). Treating yourself with large doses of cyanocobalamin can be unsafe. Do not treat yourself without your prescriber's advice.
Certain factors can increase your chance of getting vitamin B12 deficiency. These include some infections or other illness, periods of stress, genetic disorders, patients who smoke or those with a high alcohol intake. Restrict your alcohol intake and avoid smoking as cyanocobalamin will become less effective.
Vitamin B12 Injection Side Effects: Serious side effects from cyanocobalamin are rare, but severe allergic reactions (progressing to fluid in the lungs or congestive heart failure) can occur. Side effects with cyanocobalamin include: chest tightness or pain, difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath and skin rash, redness and itching.
Your doctor needs to know if you have any of these conditions: hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease), an unusual or allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives, pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Cyanocobalamin is for injection into a muscle or deeply under the skin. It is usually given by a health-care professional in a clinic setting. However, your health care professional may teach you how to perform your own injections. Follow all instructions for use exactly.
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