MB

Indications

Mecobalamin (methylcobalamin) is an active form of vitamin B12. It is used to treat nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy), such as numbness, tingling, burning or pain in the hands and feet, including nerve damage from diabetes. It is also used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency and the anaemia it causes (megaloblastic anaemia), which can happen with a vegetarian diet, older age, stomach problems or long-term use of Metformin or acid-reducing medicines.

How It Works

Vitamin B12 is needed to make healthy red blood cells and to build and repair the protective coating of nerves. Mecobalamin is already in the form the body uses, so it can go straight to work in nerve cells, helping them recover and work normally.

Dosage and Administration

Tablets, adults: usually 500 mcg three times a day after meals, or as the doctor advises. Some products are 1500 mcg once a day. Injections are given by a doctor or nurse into a muscle or vein, commonly 500 mcg three times a week at first, then less often, as prescribed. It usually takes several weeks to a few months to feel the full benefit on nerves. Children: as prescribed.

Interactions

Metformin, acid-reducing medicines (such as Omeprazole and Ranitidine), Colchicine and long-term Chloramphenicol can lower vitamin B12 levels or its effect. Heavy alcohol use reduces absorption. Folic Acid alone can hide B12 deficiency, so both levels should be checked if anaemia is present.

Contraindications

Allergy to mecobalamin, cobalamin (vitamin B12) or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Usually well tolerated. Occasionally loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhoea, stomach upset, headache or mild rash. Injections may cause pain or hardness at the injection site.

Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction, especially after an injection: swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, fainting or widespread hives.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Vitamin B12 is needed in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Normal doses are considered safe; higher treatment doses should be taken only on a doctor's advice.

Precautions and Warnings

• Numbness and tingling can have many causes; see a doctor to find the cause, especially if it is getting worse.
• If it is not working after about a month, check with the doctor rather than continuing on your own.
• People with Leber's disease (an inherited eye condition) should not use vitamin B12 without specialist advice.
• People working with mercury or mercury compounds should not take long-term high doses without advice.

Overdose

Vitamin B12 has very low toxicity, and extra amounts are passed out in the urine. Serious harm from overdose is unlikely; seek medical advice if a large amount was taken or if a child swallowed the tablets.

Therapeutic Class

Vitamin B12 (water-soluble vitamin, active coenzyme form).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light (mecobalamin breaks down in light), and out of the reach of children. Keep tablets in the original pack until use.