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Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B 12 nasal spray

What is cyanocobalamin nasal spray?

CYANOCOBALAMIN (Nascobal® nasal spray) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. Naturally occurring vitamin B12 is found in fish, seafood, milk, egg yolk and fermented cheeses. Vitamin B12 is essential to the development of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body and for the normal metabolism of fats and carbohydrates in the body. Lack of vitamin B12 can result in anemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage. Cyanocobalamin treats or prevents vitamin B12 deficiency and a resulting type of anemia, called pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia occurs in patients who do not have enough vitamin B12 in their diet (e.g., strict vegetarians) or who cannot adequately absorb the vitamin due to a defect or disease of the stomach or intestines. Generic cyanocobalamin nasal spray is not available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease)

  • an unusual reaction to Cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should this medicine be used?

Cyanocobalamin nasal spray is only for use in the nose. Prior to the first use of a new nasal pump, you must prime it so it will administer the vitamin properly. Follow the package directions. Prime the pump by spraying it into the air until the medicine spray is visible. Then prime the pump an additional 2 times. You will need to prime the pump once before each spray.

Follow the directions on the prescription label. Blow nose gently, without squeezing. With head upright, spray the medicine into one nostril. Sniff briskly while squeezing the bottle quickly and firmly. After use, rinse the tip of the spray bottle with hot water, taking care not to suck water into the bottle. Dry with a clean tissue. Replace the cap directly after cleaning. Do not use the bottle for more than one person. Do not use extra doses or use more of this medicine than your prescriber or health care professional has prescribed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Cyanocobalamin?

  • alcohol

  • chloramphenicol

  • colchicine

  • drugs that suppress your bone marrow

  • folic acid or multivitamin containing folic acid

  • hot foods or liquids

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • primidone

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Cyanocobalamin?

Unless you have pernicious anemia or a condition where you cannot absorb cyanocobalamin, make sure you have a proper diet. Having vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Foods that contain vitamin B12 include fish, seafood, egg yolk, milk and fermented cheeses. There is no Vitamin B12 in any vegetables; therefore, strict vegetarians are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

There is no scientific evidence to support claims that cyanocobalamin can treat various other problems (such as allergies, mental problems, nerve disorders, skin problems). Treating yourself with large doses of cyanocobalamin can be unsafe. Do not treat yourself without your prescriber's advice.

Certain factors can increase your chance of getting vitamin B12 deficiency. These include some infections or other illness, periods of stress, genetic disorders, patients who smoke or those with a high alcohol intake. Restrict your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Cyanocobalamin?

Serious side effects from cyanocobalamin are rare, but severe allergic reactions (progressing to fluid in the lungs or congestive heart failure) can occur. Side effects with cyanocobalamin include:

  • chest tightness or pain

  • difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath

  • skin rash, redness and itching

Minor side effect with cyanocobalamin:

  • headache

Let your prescriber or health care professional know about this side effect if it does not go away.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store the container upright at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Store away from heat and light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12 capsules

What are cyanocobalamin capsules?

CYANOCOBALAMIN (Vitamin B12) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. A special radioactive form (one that can be detected by X-ray) of cyanocobalamin helps to diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency. Generic radioactive cyanocobalamin capsules are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease)

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I take this medicine?

Do not eat anything for 8 to 12 hours before you take this medicine. Take cyanocobalamin capsules by mouth. These capsules are only given under the supervision of a trained health-care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What drug(s) may interact with cyanocobalamin?

  • alcohol

  • chloramphenicol

  • colchicine

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • primidone

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking cyanocobalamin?

You will be under suitably qualified supervision for this test, so this does not apply.

What side effects may I notice from taking cyanocobalamin?

Serious side effects from cyanocobalamin are rare, but severe allergic reactions (progressing to fluid in the lungs or congestive heart failure) can occur. Side effects with cyanocobalamin include:

  • chest tightness or pain

  • difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath

  • skin rash, redness and itching

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store as directed by the manufacturer. Cyanocobalamin is quickly broken down and made inactive when exposed to heat or light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12 injection

What is cyanocobalamin injection?

CYANOCOBALAMIN (Vitamin B12) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. Naturally occurring vitamin B12 is found in fish, seafood, milk, egg yolk and fermented cheeses. Vitamin B12 is essential to the development of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body and for the normal metabolism of fats and carbohydrates in the body. Lack of vitamin B12 can result in anemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage. Cyanocobalamin treats or prevents vitamin B12 deficiency and a resulting type of anemia, called pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia occurs in patients who do not have enough vitamin B12 in their diet (e.g., strict vegetarians) or who cannot adequately absorb the vitamin due to a defect or disease of the stomach or intestines. Generic cyanocobalamin injections are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease)

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use this medicine?

Cyanocobalamin is for injection into a muscle or deeply under the skin. It is usually given by a health-care professional in a clinic setting. However, your health care professional may teach you how to perform your own injections. Follow all instructions for use exactly.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, there is no cause for concern. Notify your health-care professional and reschedule your appointment.

What drug(s) may interact with cyanocobalamin?

  • alcohol

  • chloramphenicol

  • colchicine

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • primidone

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking cyanocobalamin?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional regularly for injections of cyanocobalamin, even if you feel better. Pernicious anemia requires life-long treatment to prevent a return of symptoms and permanent nerve damage.

Unless you have pernicious anemia or a condition where you cannot absorb cyanocobalamin, make sure you have a proper diet. Having vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Foods that contain vitamin B12 include fish, seafood, egg yolk, milk and fermented cheeses. There is no Vitamin B12 in any vegetables; therefore, strict vegetarians are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

There is no scientific evidence to support claims that cyanocobalamin can treat various other problems (such as allergies, mental problems, nerve disorders, skin problems). Treating yourself with large doses of cyanocobalamin can be unsafe. Do not treat yourself without your prescriber's advice.

Certain factors can increase your chance of getting vitamin B12 deficiency. These include some infections or other illness, periods of stress, genetic disorders, patients who smoke or those with a high alcohol intake. Restrict your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.

What side effects may I notice from receiving cyanocobalamin?

Serious side effects from cyanocobalamin are rare, but severe allergic reactions (progressing to fluid in the lungs or congestive heart failure) can occur. Side effects with cyanocobalamin include:

  • chest tightness or pain

  • difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath

  • skin rash, redness and itching

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 85 degrees F). Store away from heat and light, in a cool, dry place. Cyanocobalamin is quickly broken down and made inactive when exposed to heat or light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12 nasal gel

What is cyanocobalamin nasal gel?

CYANOCOBALAMIN (Nascobal® nasal gel) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. Naturally occurring vitamin B12 is found in fish, seafood, milk, egg yolk and fermented cheeses. Vitamin B12 is essential to the development of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body and for the normal metabolism of fats and carbohydrates in the body. Lack of vitamin B12 can result in anemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage. Cyanocobalamin treats or prevents vitamin B12 deficiency and a resulting type of anemia, called pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia occurs in patients who do not have enough vitamin B12 in their diet (e.g., strict vegetarians) or who cannot adequately absorb the vitamin due to a defect or disease of the stomach or intestines. Generic cyanocobalamin nasal gel is not available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease)

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I take this medicine?

Cyanocobalamin nasal gel is only for use in the nose. Prior to the first use of a new nasal pump, you must prime it so it will administer the vitamin properly. Follow the package directions. Prime the pump by spraying it into the air 7—8 times before use until the medicine spray is visible.

Follow the directions on the prescription label. Blow nose gently, without squeezing. With head upright, spray the medicine into one nostril. Sniff briskly while squeezing the bottle quickly and firmly. After use, rinse the tip of the spray bottle with hot water, taking care not to suck water into the bottle. Dry with a clean tissue. Replace the cap directly after cleaning. Do not use the bottle for more than one person. Do not use extra doses or use more of this medicine than your prescriber or health care professional has prescribed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose, there is no cause for concern. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with cyanocobalamin?

  • alcohol

  • chloramphenicol

  • colchicine

  • hot foods or liquids

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • primidone

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking cyanocobalamin?

Unless you have pernicious anemia or a condition where you cannot absorb cyanocobalamin, make sure you have a proper diet. Having vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Foods that contain vitamin B12 include fish, seafood, egg yolk, milk and fermented cheeses. There is no Vitamin B12 in any vegetables; therefore, strict vegetarians are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

There is no scientific evidence to support claims that cyanocobalamin can treat various other problems (such as allergies, mental problems, nerve disorders, skin problems). Treating yourself with large doses of cyanocobalamin can be unsafe. Do not treat yourself without your prescriber's advice.

Certain factors can increase your chance of getting vitamin B12 deficiency. These include some infections or other illness, periods of stress, genetic disorders, patients who smoke or those with a high alcohol intake. Restrict your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.

What side effects may I notice from taking cyanocobalamin?

Serious side effects from cyanocobalamin are rare, but severe allergic reactions (progressing to fluid in the lungs or congestive heart failure) can occur. Side effects with cyanocobalamin include:

  • chest tightness or pain

  • difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath

  • skin rash, redness and itching

Minor side effect with cyanocobalamin:

  • headache

Let your prescriber or health care professional know about this side effect if it does not go away.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store the container upright at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 85 degrees F). Store away from heat and light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12 tablets

What are cyanocobalamin tablets?

CYANOCOBALAMIN (Vitamin B12) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. Naturally occurring vitamin B12 is found in fish, seafood, milk, egg yolk and fermented cheeses. Vitamin B12 is essential to the development of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body and for the normal metabolism of fats and carbohydrates in the body. Lack of vitamin B12 can result in anemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage. Cyanocobalamin treats or prevents vitamin B12 deficiency and a resulting type of anemia, called pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia occurs in patients who do not have enough vitamin B12 in their diet (e.g., strict vegetarians) or who cannot adequately absorb the vitamin due to a defect or disease of the stomach or intestines. Generic cyanocobalamin tablets are available. Some multivitamin products for use as dietary supplements contain small amounts of cyanocobalamin.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease)

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I take this medicine?

Take cyanocobalamin tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water, or you can take them with food or milk to improve absorption. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose, there is no cause for concern. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with cyanocobalamin?

  • alcohol

  • chloramphenicol

  • colchicine

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • primidone

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking cyanocobalamin?

Unless you have pernicious anemia or a condition where you cannot absorb cyanocobalamin, make sure you have a proper diet. Having vitamin supplements is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Foods that contain vitamin B12 include fish, seafood, egg yolk, milk and fermented cheeses. There is no Vitamin B12 in any vegetables; therefore, strict vegetarians are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

There is no scientific evidence to support claims that cyanocobalamin can treat various other problems (such as allergies, mental problems, nerve disorders, skin problems). Treating yourself with large doses of cyanocobalamin can be unsafe. Do not treat yourself without your prescriber's advice.

Certain factors can increase your chance of getting vitamin B12 deficiency. These include some infections or other illness, periods of stress, genetic disorders, patients who smoke or those with a high alcohol intake. Restrict your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.

What side effects may I notice from taking cyanocobalamin?

Serious side effects from cyanocobalamin are rare, but severe allergic reactions (progressing to fluid in the lungs or congestive heart failure) can occur. Side effects with cyanocobalamin include:

  • chest tightness or pain

  • difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath

  • skin rash, redness and itching

Minor side effect with cyanocobalamin:

  • diarrhea

Let your prescriber or health care professional know about this side effect if it does not go away.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 85 degrees F). Store away from heat and light, in a cool, dry place. Cyanocobalamin is quickly broken down and made inactive when exposed to heat or light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Date Last Modified: 9/26/2007

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