Indications
Cobalt is a trace mineral. In the products listed here it is one ingredient of vitamin and mineral premixes, mainly added to the feed of poultry and farm animals. Cattle, goats and sheep need cobalt so the microbes in their stomach can make vitamin B12; a lack causes poor appetite, weight loss, weakness and anaemia. People get the cobalt they need from vitamin B12 in food and do not need cobalt on its own.
How It Works
Cobalt sits at the centre of the vitamin B12 molecule. Vitamin B12 is needed to make red blood cells, to keep nerves healthy and to turn food into energy.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as the mixing rate on the product label or as advised by a veterinarian, mixed evenly into feed or water. Do not go above the stated rate, and do not give premix products to people.
Interactions
At label levels no important interactions are expected. Very high amounts of other minerals, such as Iron, Manganese and Zinc, can compete with cobalt for absorption.
Contraindications
- Not for use in people as a separate supplement.
- Do not use in animals already receiving enough cobalt from other premixes, to avoid excess.
Side Effects
At the correct rate, side effects are not expected. Too much cobalt over time can cause poor appetite, weight loss and blood changes in animals, and in people can harm the heart, thyroid and nerves.
Get urgent medical help if a person, especially a child, swallows a premix or concentrate, or has breathing problems, chest pain or a fast heartbeat after exposure. Contact a veterinarian promptly if animals become suddenly ill after a feed change.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take cobalt products; they get what they need from vitamin B12. For pregnant or milking animals, follow the label or a veterinarian’s advice.
Precautions and Warnings
- Wear gloves and a dust mask when handling premix powder, and wash hands afterwards.
- Keep premixes away from human food and feed preparation areas for people.
- Follow any withdrawal time on the label before eggs, milk or meat are used.
Overdose
If a person swallows a premix or concentrate, seek medical help at once and take the pack along. For animals given too much, stop the feed and contact a veterinarian.
Therapeutic Class
Trace element (mineral supplement), mainly for animal nutrition.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place in the closed original pack, away from light and out of the reach of children and animals.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.