Why is this medication prescribed?
Cyanocobalamin is a form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in the activities of several enzymes. It is essential for making the genetic material of cells and thus for growth and development.
Vitamin B12 is particularly important in the formation of red blood cells. It is required for the utilisation of dietary folic acid and carbohydrates. It is also necessary for maintaining a healthy nervous system.
A normal diet usually provides sufficient vitamin B12. A strict vegetarian or vegan diet (lacking in eggs or dairy products) is likely to produce a deficiency. In this situation, supplements will be needed. The most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency is pernicious anemia where the absorption of the vitamin is impaired due the absence of "intrinsic factor".
Supplements are also needed in certain bowel disorders such as coeliac disease and steatorrhoea, after surgery to the stomach or tapeworm infestation. Cyanocobalamin can be given as an intramuscular injection or by mouth, if absorption is not impaired.
Dosage and using this medicine
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?