Cyanocobalamin
Also known as: Vitamin B12
Cyanocobalamin is also called vitamin B12. It is the most recently discovered of the viatmin B series, was isolated from the liver fraction in 1948. Cyanocobalamin is a complex water soluble compound. It is made up of a porphyrin like ring with a central cobalt atom attached to a nucleotide. It is required in body for growth, cell production and for blood and nerve function. The source of vitamin B12 is microbial synthesis, it is not present in plants or cereal grains to a measurable extent. The chief dietary source is microbially derived vitamin B12 in meat, eggs and dairy products. Humans must obtain the vitamin from the dietary intake of animal products.
Primary Characteristics
Cyanocobalamin is also known as Vitamin B12.
It is of Natural origin and belongs to Cobalt Chelate.
It belongs to Nutrients and Vitamins pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Hematological Agents .
Molecular Weight: 1355 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 80 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 180 · Non-proprietary name: Cyanocobalamin.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Cyanocobalamin has an oral bioavailability is 9% (±2%).
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, renal excretion is major.
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Indications
Cyanocobalamin is primarily indicated in conditions like Addisonian pernicious anaemia, Congenital cobalamine malabsorption, Congenital intrinsic factor deficiency, Homocystenemia, Ileal resection, Methylmalonylacidurias, Nutrition deficiency, Post gastrectomy vit B-12 deficiency, Transcobalamin II deficiency.
Cyanocobalamin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Infestations, Malignancy, Tapeworm infection, Vitamin-B12 defeciency of dietary origin.
Contraindications
Cyanocobalamin is contraindicated in conditions like Anaphylactic reactions, Tobacco amblyopia.
Dosage
Cyanocobalamin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 625 mcg | 625 mcg | — | IM | Every alternate day for 1-2 weeks, Maintenance dose is given monthly. |
| 100 mcg | 100 mcg | Every 24h | IM, Deep SC | For 6-7 days. If response observed then same days on alternate days for 7 doses, then every 3-4 days for another 2-3 weeks, then monthly for life in Pernicious Anemia |
| 1000 mcg | 1000 mcg | — | Schilling test | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 4 ug /kg | 4 ug /kg | Every 24h | Intra Muscular | Initially for 2 or more weeks |
| 4 ug/kg | 4 ug/kg | Every 24h | Subcutaneous | Initially for 2 or more weeks |
| 10 ug/kg | 10 ug/kg | — | Subcutaneous | Maintenance, once in a month |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 4 ug /kg | 4 ug /kg | Every 24h | Intra Muscular | Initially for 2 or more weeks |
| 10 ug/kg | 10 ug/kg | — | Intra Muscular | Maintenance, once in a month |
| 4 ug/kg | 4 ug/kg | Every 24h | Subcutaneous | Initially for 2 or more weeks |
| 10 ug/kg | 10 ug/kg | — | Subcutaneous | Maintenance, once in a month |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Cyanocobalamin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Congestive heart failure , Pulmonary edema, Thrombosis , Peripheral vascular disease.
Cyanocobalamin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hypersensitivity reactions, Bronchospasm , Shivering, Bronchospasm, Dyspnea, Persistant urticaria. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Cyanocobalamin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Diarrhea, Eczematous skin reaction, Itching.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Cyanocobalamin may interfere in the diagnosis of Hematocrit Value .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.10.1 — Antianemia drugs
- 2.27 — Vitamins, minerals, tonics, and other susbstances
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Cyanocobalamin in Pakistan: