Methylcobalamin
Introduction To Methylcobalamin
Methylcobalamin is a man-made form of vitamin B12. It is used to treat deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body. Vitamin B12 is important for growth, cell reproduction, blood formation, and protein and tissue synthesis. It also helps to treat anemia, fatigue, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
Methylcobalamin should be used exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Follow all directions on the prescription label and read all medication guides before use. You should use it regularly and at a fixed time each day to get the most benefit from it. This medicine may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes making changes to your diet and taking other medicines and supplements. Learn about the foods you should eat to make sure you get enough vitamin B12 in your diet.
Methylcobalamin is generally safe and does not usually cause any common side effects. Some medicines can decrease the absorption of vitamin B12, let your doctor know all other medicines you are taking to make sure you are safe. To make sure it is safe for you, before using the medicine let your doctor also know if you have any medical conditions such as Leber's disease, liver disease, or kidney disorder.
Uses of Methylcobalamin
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
Benefits of Methylcobalamin
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Methylcobalamin is a supplement of vitamin B12. It is used to treat low levels of
vitamin B12 in your body. Vitamin B12 is essential in the formation of red
blood cells and helps in the absorption of iron in the body. It also helps
your body use fat and carbohydrates for energy and make new protein. In
combination with other vitamins, it helps in strengthening the immune system,
improves the metabolism of the body, and is important for the nervous system.
Side effects of Methylcobalamin
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Severe side effects of Mecotrac
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Rash
How to use Methylcobalamin
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
How Methylcobalamin works
Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that restores its level in the body thereby helping in treating certain anemias and nerve problems.
Quick tips
- Methylcobalamin helps replenish vitamin B12 level in your body.
- This further helps in regeneration of damaged nerves in the body.
- Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Methylcobalamin if I’m pregnant?
Methylcobalamin may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Methylcobalamin if I’m breastfeeding?
Methylcobalamin is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.
AlcoholCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Is drinking alcohol while taking Methylcobalamin safe?
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Methylcobalamin. Please consult your doctor.
DrivingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I drive after taking Methylcobalamin?
It is not known whether Methylcobalamin alters the ability to drive. Do not drive if you experience any symptoms that affect your ability to concentrate and react.
KidneyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Methylcobalamin if I have/had kidney diseases?
There is limited information available on the use of Methylcobalamin in patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor.
LiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Methylcobalamin if I have/had liver diseases?
There is limited information available on the use of Methylcobalamin in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Methylcobalamin?
Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which is required by the body to make red blood cells and maintain a healthy nervous system. It is also important for releasing energy from food and using vitamin B11 (folic acid).
Q. Why can’t I get sufficient vitamin B12 in my diet?
You can get vitamin B12 from sources like meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. While people who are vegetarian or vegan may not get Vitamin B12 as it is not found naturally in foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains. Therefore, deficiency of Vitamin B12 is usually noticed in vegetarians or vegans.
Q. What happens if I have vitamin B12 deficiency?
Deficiency of vitamin B12 may cause tiredness, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss and megaloblastic anemia (a condition when red blood cells become larger than normal). It may also lead to nerve problems such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Other symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include problems with balance, depression, confusion, dementia, poor memory and soreness of the mouth or tongue.
Q. Is Methylcobalamin safe?
Methylcobalamin is generally well tolerated and considered safe. However, in some cases, rare side effects may be observed such as nausea, diarrhea, anorexia and rash. Discontinue taking this medicine immediately if a rash occurs.
Q. How should Methylcobalamin be given?
Methylcobalamin can be injected directly into a vein (intravenously) or into a muscle (intramuscularly). The usual dose is 1 ampoule (0.5 mg of Methylcobalamin) and is given 3 times a week. After 2 months, 1 ampoule (0.5 mg of Methylcobalamin) is given every one to three months as a part of maintenance therapy.
Q. What precautions need to be taken while administering Methylcobalamin?
Avoid taking the injections at the same site every time. If there is intense pain while injecting or if the blood flows back into the syringe, take out the needle and re-insert at a different site.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
MediClap strives to make its website accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Should you encounter any difficulty accessing this website, kindly send an email to hello@mediclap.com to enable us to provide the necessary services through alternative means.
MediClap is not affiliated with nor sponsored by any of the third-party brands mentioned. All trademarks, brands, logos, and copyrights mentioned remain the sole property of their respective owners.