Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B <SUB>12</SUB> nasal spray

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What is cyanocobalamin nasal spray?

CYANOCOBALAMIN is a man made form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is used in the growth of healthy blood cells, nerve cells, and proteins in the body. It also helps with the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. This medicine is used to treat people who can not absorb vitamin B12.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• hereditary optic nerve atrophy (Leber's disease)
• an unusual reaction to Cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should this medicine be used?

This medicine is for use in the nose only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You may not get the full dose of this medicine if you have a runny nose. Do not use this medicine for at least one hour before or after hot foods or liquids. Talk to your doctor if you get a runny nose from allergies or a cold. Do not use more often than directed. Do not share this medicine with anyone else. Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Cyanocobalamin?

• alcohol
• chloramphenicol
• colchicine
• drugs that suppress your bone marrow
• folic acid or multivitamin containing folic acid
• hot foods or liquids
• 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 should I watch for while taking Cyanocobalamin?

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.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Cyanocobalamin?

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:
• headache
Let your prescriber or health care professional know about this side effect if it does not go away.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store the container upright at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Store away from heat and light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.