Mecobalamin or methylcobalamin are the names for vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for nerve and blood cell health.
Know the basics
What is mecobalamin used for?
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Megaloblastic anemia
- Peripheral neuropathy
How should I take mecobalamin?
The oral tablet should be swallowed whole, without chewing or crushing it. Take it with or without meals.
The parenteral solution should be administered by a licensed healthcare professional. Throw away the ampule in the proper trash receptacle after use.
How do I store mecobalamin?
This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer.
There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.
You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Know the precautions & warnings
What should I know before using mecobalamin?
Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
- An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
- Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.
Is it safe to take mecobalamin during pregnancy or breast-feeding?
Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is likely safe to take. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.
Know the side effects
What are the side effects of mecobalamin?
Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:
- Allergic reaction
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Know the interactions
What drugs may interact with mecobalamin?
This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects.
To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Drugs with known interactions:
- Chloramphenicol
- Methotrexate
- Pyrimethamine
- Antibiotics
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.
Does food or alcohol interact with mecobalamin?
This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Don’t drink alcohol while taking this drug because it can reduce vitamin B12 levels. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.
What health conditions may interact with mecobalamin?
This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.
Understand the dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
What is the dose for an adult?
Peripheral neuropathies
- Oral: 1500 mcg/day in 3 divided doses.
- Parenteral: 500 mcg daily Intramuscular/Intravenous 3 times/week.
Megaloblastic anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency
- Parenteral: 500 mcg daily Intramuscular/Intraven 3 times/week.
- Maintenance dose: After about 2 months of therapy, reduce dose to single admin of 500 mcg every 1-3 months.
What is the dose for a child?
There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How is Mecobalamin available?
Mecobalamin is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Tablet, Oral: 0.5 mg, 1 mg
- Solution for injection, IV: 0.5 mg/mL
What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?
Overdose is rare with water-soluble vitamins, such as B12. In case of an emergency or a serious adverse reaction, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
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