Hydroxocobalamin injection

What is this medicine?

HYDROXOCOBALAMIN (hye drox oh koe BAL a min) is a form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 helps 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 with low levels of vitamin B12 or those who can not absorb vitamin B12. It also helps with the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. It is also used as an antidote to treat cyanide poisoning.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a muscle or a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a clinic, doctor's office, or hospital.

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

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest tightness, pain

• dizziness

• shaking or shivering

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• headache

• nausea, vomiting

• pain at site where injected

• red colored urine

• red tint to skin

What may interact with this medicine?

• chemotherapy

• chloramphenicol

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

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

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• high blood pressure

• iron-deficiency anemia

• kidney disease

• low levels of folic acid in the blood

• megaloblastic anemia

• an unusual or allergic reaction to hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional regularly. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

You may need to follow a special diet. Talk to your doctor. Limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.