What is the most important information I should know about oral cyanocobalamin?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cobalt, or if you have
Leber's disease. Cyanocobalamin can lead to optic nerve damage (and possibly
blindness) in
people with Leber's disease.
To treat pernicious anemia, you will have to use this medication on a regular
basis for the rest of your life. Not using the medication can lead to irreversible nerve
damage in your spinal cord.
Pernicious anemia is also treated with folic acid to help maintain red blood cells.
However, folic acid will not treat Vitamin B12 deficiency and will not prevent possible damage
to the spinal cord. Take all of your medications as directed.
Your dose needs may change if you become
pregnant, if you
breast-feed, or if you eat
a
vegetarian diet. Tell your doctor about any changes in your diet or medical condition.
What is oral cyanocobalamin?
Cyanocobalamin is a man-made form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is important for
growth, cell reproduction, blood formation, and protein and tissue synthesis.
Cyanocobalamin is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency in people with pernicious anemia
and other conditions.
Cyanocobalamin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking oral cyanocobalamin?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cobalt, or if you have
Leber's disease. Cyanocobalamin can lead to optic nerve damage (and possibly blindness) in
people with Leber's disease.
Before using cyanocobalamin, tell your doctor if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely take oral cyanocobalamin.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication can harm an
unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Cyanocobalamin passes into breast milk, but it is not known whether
cyanocobalamin could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your
doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
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