Details

Hydroxocobalamin is used for the treatment of anaemia and vitamin B12 deficiency due to a number of conditions, including poor diet, and for the Schilling test. Hydroxocobalamin is a vitamin. It works by increasing levels of vitamin B12 in conditions in which it is needed. Before using hydroxocobalamin, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or non-prescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement or if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances.

Typical Uses

Hydroxocobalamin is a man-made injectable form of vitamin B12 used to treat low levels (deficiency) of this vitamin. Vitamin B12 helps your body use fat and carbohydrates for energy and makes new protein. It is also important for normal blood, cells, and nerves. Most people get enough vitamin B12 in their diet, but a deficiency may occur in certain health conditions (e.g., poor nutrition, stomach/intestinal problems, infection, cancer). Serious vitamin B12 deficiency may result in anaemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage.

Side Effects

Some of the side effects of hydroxocobalamin include pain at the injection site, mild diarrhoea, itching, or a feeling of swelling all over the body.

Drug Interactions

• Hydroxocobalamin+arsenic trioxide- Arsenic trioxide can cause an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening and the risk may be increased during treatment with hydroxocobalamin for severe anaemia. As your body responds to the replenishment of vitamin B12, potassium from the blood is used to generate more red blood cells. This can lead to a condition known as hypokalemia, or low blood potassium. In severe cases, hypokalemia can cause irregular heart rhythm, as well as other problems such as muscle weakness, paralysis, and breathing and swallowing difficulties (due to muscle paralysis).
• Hydroxocobalamin+chloramphenicol- Chloramphenicol may interfere with the effects of hydroxocobalamin in the treatment of anaemia by impairing bone marrow function. Contact your doctor if your symptoms worsen or your condition changes.

Mechanism of action

Hydroxocobalamin belongs to group of medicines called as vitamin supplements. It works by providing additional vitamin B12 in the body which is required for metabolism and energy production, growth and development of various cells in body and needs to be provided during its deficiency.

Pregnancy Category : C