Vitamin B12

Methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B12. In many dietary supplements and multivitamins, vitamin B12 is in the inactive form, called cyanocobalamin. This means that cyanocobalamin must be metabolized in the body to methylcobalamin. For proper vitamin B12 absorption, it must combine with intrinsic factor in the small intestine. Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor and is involved in DNA synthesis, nervous system and neurological function, cognitive function, and the formation of red blood cells.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using vitamin B12. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Vitamin B12:

• The recommended dose of vitamin B12 supplements is typically 500 to 1000 mcg daily, but it is always best to consult with your health professional as doses may vary. The amount of vitamin B12 and how long you will take it depends on each person and the reason for taking it. High doses may be needed if the vitamin B12 deficiency is more severe.
• It is available as oral vitamin B12, sublingual, or intramuscular with vitamin B12 injections.
• Take vitamin B12 sublingual tablets by placing one tablet under your tongue until it dissolves, and then swallow.
• The daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 mcg (micrograms).
• Your healthcare professional may monitor your vitamin B12 levels with a blood test to ensure your levels are improving.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency may occur due to poor dietary intake of vitamin B12, poor vitamin B12 absorption, or autoimmune diseases like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and immune gastritis. Vegetarian diets and vegan diets often have low amounts of vitamin B12, as vitamin B12 is mostly found in animal products and animal foods.

The most common side effects of vitamin B12 include:

• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Headache.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using vitamin B12. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction. Symptoms include hives, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

These are not all of the possible side effects of vitamin B12. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Vitamin B12, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Previous allergic reactions to dietary supplements, food, and any medications.
• Coronary stent or angioplasty.
• Hypersensitivity to cobalt or cobalamin.

Allergic reaction to any ingredients in vitamin B12 dietary supplements.

Sublingual vitamin B12 works within hours of taking it; however, it may take weeks to see positive effects.

When vitamin B12 is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Vitamin C.
• Potassium supplements.
• Folic acid.
• Alcohol.
• Metformin.
• Proton pump inhibitors, like omeprazole. Systematic reviews have shown that proton pump inhibitors can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.

The most common dose of vitamin B12 sublingual is 1000 mcg per tablet. There are other doses of vitamin B12 sublingual available, such as 1200 mcg, 2500 mcg, and 5000 mcg. It is also available in many multivitamins and vitamin B complex products.

Store vitamin B12 at room temperature, away from children and pets.

Vitamin B12 is generic, so multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture vitamin B12 dietary supplements.

Vitamin B12 is the generic version.

It is best to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping vitamin B12 supplements. This is because your vitamin B12 levels may decrease, and worsen symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 is likely safe in pregnancy at doses that do not exceed the daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 2.6 mcg vitamin B12. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Vitamin B12 is likely safe in breastfeeding at doses that do not exceed the daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 2.8 mcg of vitamin B12. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.