Drugs & Vitamins

B-12 Tablets Active Ingredients: Cyanocobalamin Tablets Representative Names: B-12 Tablets, Vitamin B-12 Tablets What are cyanocobalamin tablets? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with cyanocobalamin? What side effects may I notice from taking cyanocobalamin? What should I watch for while taking cyanocobalamin? Where can I keep my medicine? What are cyanocobalamin tablets? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) •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 side effects may I notice from taking cyanocobalamin? (Back to top) 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. What should I watch for while taking cyanocobalamin? (Back to top) 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. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) 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. Last Updated:01/01/2001 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above 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 the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.