Vitamin B12 oral

What is this medicine?

CYANOCOBALAMIN (sye an oh koe BAL a min) is a man made form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is essential in the development of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body. It also helps with the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. It is added to a healthy diet to prevent or treat low vitamin B-12 levels.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. If you are taking the tablets, do not chew, cut, or crush this medicine. If using an vitamin solution, use a specially marked spoon or dropper to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. For best results take this vitamin with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest pain, tightness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

What may interact with this medicine?

• alcohol

• aminosalicylic acid

• colchicine

• medicines that suppress your bone marrow like chemotherapy, chloramphenicol

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 85 degrees F). Protect from heat and light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• anemia

• kidney disease

• Leber's disease

• malabsorption disorder

• an unusual or allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Follow a healthy diet. Taking a vitamin supplement does not replace the need for a balanced diet. Some foods that have vitamin B-12 naturally are fish, seafood, egg yolk, milk and fermented cheese.

Too much of this vitamin can be unsafe. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about how much is right for you.