Vitamin B12 is also known as cyanocobalamin. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for growth, cell reproduction, blood formation, and protein and tissue synthesis. Cyanocobalamin is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency in people with pernicious anemia and other conditions. While there are several forms of B12 supplementation, injections are most common.
Sources of Vitamin B12
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products, such as fish, red meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. It is also present in cereals that are fortified with vitamin B12. Although it is contained in foods, people may not ingest enough of it or may have difficulty absorbing it.
Indication for Use
Vitamin B12 is used to treat pernicious anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. This generally occurs because of inadequate absorption or lack of dietary vitamin B12. Patients with severe hematologic or neurologic symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency require immediate treatment with an intensive regimen of cyanocobalamin, followed by ongoing maintenance doses.
Dosing
According to International Health News, the amount of vitamin B12 needed by the body is small, but vitamin B12 is not absorbed well, so much larger amounts are needed for supplementation. The dosage of vitamin B12 for pernicious anemia in adults is 1,000mcg injection per month. Pediatric dosing is 100mcg injection per month.
Precautions
Vitamin B12 is considered safe and nontoxic. Consult your primary care provider before starting vitamin B12 supplementation. There is a potential for interactions with other medications. If you are taking a vitamin B12 injection, your primary care provider is likely aware because you need a prescription for the injections.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the most common side effects are itching, rash, diarrhea, peripheral vascular thrombosis, polycythemia vera, hypokalemia and gout. It has also in some cases made rosacea worse.
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