Cyanocobalamin

What cyanocobalamin is for

Cyanocobalamin is a man-made (artificial) version of vitamin that's used to treat and prevent vitamin B12 deficiency, which happens when you have low levels of this vitamin in your body.

Your body needs vitamin B12 to make red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body.

You can get vitamin B12 from your food or supplements, but sometimes you might not be able to get enough. This can happen if you have a condition that affects how your body absorbs vitamin B12, you have a vegan diet, or you do not eat much meat or dairy products.

How to take cyanocobalamin

Cyanocobalamin usually comes as tablets that you swallow. How much you need to take and for how long depends on why you’re taking it.

When taking cyanocobalamin:

• swallow tablets whole with a glass of water
• take tablets between meals

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to use it or have any problems using it.

If you miss a dose of cyanocobalamin

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose.

If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the usual time.

If you take too much cyanocobalamin

Taking an extra dose of cyanocobalamin is unlikely to cause problems, but it's important to get medical advice if you take too much as it can be dangerous.

Side effects of cyanocobalamin

Like all medicines, cyanocobalamin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Side effects can include spots or rashes that look similar to acne.

Serious side effects

Cyanocobalamin can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.

Possible serious side effects of cyanocobalamin include:

• an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing
• skin reactions – causing symptoms such a rash with blisters, feeling faint, wheezing or difficulty breathing

Who can and cannot take cyanocobalamin

Most adults and children can take cyanocobalamin.

But cyanocobalamin is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:

• you've had an allergic reaction or other serious side effect from cyanocobalamin or another vitamin B12
• you're allergic to cobalt

Before taking cyanocobalamin, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

Breastfeeding and cyanocobalamin

You may be able to take cyanocobalamin while you're breastfeeding, but check with a pharmacist or doctor first.

It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects from medicine you're taking, but speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby or call NHS 111.

Pregnancy and cyanocobalamin

You can usually take cyanocobalamin if you're pregnant, but check with your pharmacists or doctor first.

Find out more about taking cyanocobalamin during pregnancy on the Bumps (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) website

Taking cyanocobalamin with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with cyanocobalamin.

This includes:

• H2 blockers like ranitidine, famotidine or nizatidine
• proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole

Before taking cyanocobalamin, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

Food, drink and alcohol with cyanocobalamin

You can eat and drink as normal while taking cyanocobalamin.