Description
Cyanocobalamin is a form of vitamin B
12 used to treat and prevent vitamin B
12 deficiency except in the presence of cyanide toxicity. The deficiency may
occur in pernicious anemia, following surgical removal of the stomach, with
fish tapeworm, or due to bowel cancer. It is less preferred than
hydroxocobalamin for treating vitamin B
12 deficiency. Some study have shown that it has an antihypotensive effect. It
is used by mouth, by injection into a muscle, or as a nasal spray.
Cyanocobalamin is generally well tolerated. Minor side effects may include
diarrhea and itchiness. Serious side effects may include anaphylaxis, low
blood potassium, and heart failure. Use is not recommended in those who are
allergic to cobalt or have Leber's disease. Vitamin B
12 is an essential nutrient meaning that it cannot be made by the body but is
required for life.
Cyanocobalamin was first manufactured in the 1940s. It is available as a generic medication and over the counter. In 2020, it was the 105th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 6 million prescriptions.
