Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

CYANOCOBALAMIN - INJECTION

(SYE-an-oh-koh-BAL-uh-min)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cobal, Cyanoject, Cyomin, Vibal, Vitamin B-12

Uses

Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) is important to the body for growth, cell production, blood and nerve function. It is given to treat low levels of B12 or in conditions where requirements may be increased such as in chronic illnesses.

How To Use

This medication is given by injection into a muscle or injected deeply under the skin (deep subcutaneous injection). Initially it may be given every day. Maintenance doses are usually given once a month.

Side Effects

Mild diarrhea, itching, temporary feeling of warmth and pain at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: breathing trouble, congestion, tightness in the chest. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: eye diseases, infections, any allergies. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death) if given by injection to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is greater with lower birth weight infants and is greater with increased amounts of benzyl alcohol. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, especially of: vitamin products, folic acid, cimetidine, potassium supplements, neomycin, colchicine. Limit intake of alcoholic beverages which can interfere with the absorption of this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Blood tests will be done to check your response to this medication. It is important to maintain a well balanced diet to ensure adequate intake of all the vitamins and minerals.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

This medication is to be stored in a cool, dry area away from direct light. Do not store in the bathroom.