Cyanocobalamin

Generic Details

Generic Name

Cyanocobalamin

Other Names

  • Vitamin B12

Drug Class

  • Vitamin supplement

Chemical Formula

C63H88CoN14O14P

Molecular Weight

1355.365 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Cyanocobalamin acts as a cofactor for methionine synthase, promoting the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. It is also involved in the synthesis of DNA.

Indications

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Pernicious anemia
  • Malabsorption syndromes

Common Dosage Forms

  • Oral tablets
  • Injectable solution

Typical Dosage

  • Oral: 1000 mcg daily for adults
  • Intramuscular or subcutaneous: 1000 mcg monthly for adults

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosage based on weight and age, consult a healthcare provider

Geriatric Dosage

  • Similar to adult dosages but may require adjustments based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Weakness
  • Injection site reactions

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to cyanocobalamin or cobalt

Pregnancy Category

  • Category A - Safe for use during pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Compatible with breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Proton pump inhibitors may reduce cyanocobalamin absorption

Overdose Symptoms

  • No known toxicity symptoms, excess is typically excreted in urine

Antidote for Overdose

  • Not applicable

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from light and moisture

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Primarily absorbed in the ileum
  • Distribution: Binds to transcobalamin II for transport in the blood
  • Metabolism: Converted to active coenzymes in the liver
  • Excretion: Excreted in urine

Precautions

  • Monitor serum B12 levels regularly during treatment

Warnings

  • Do not exceed recommended dosages to prevent hypervitaminosis

Others

  • Cyanocobalamin is available in combination with other B vitamins for added benefits.