Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for our metabolic functions and the normal functioning of nerves and blood cells. Cyanocobalamin is a man-made Vitamin B12 that can be used to treat Vitamin B12 deficiency due to inadequate dietary intake. Vitamin B12 deficiency often occurs in patients with malabsorption or metabolic disorders and who follow a strict vegetarian diet, which may lead to megaloblastic anemia and brain damage.
Vitamin B12 can be taken by mouth or intramuscular injection.
If you are taking it by mouth, the dose can range from 50-2000 micrograms daily. Higher doses (i.e. 1000-2000 micrograms) by mouth are used for people with problems absorbing Vitamin B12.
If you are taking it by intramuscular injection, you should start with 1 mg every 2-3 days for 11 doses and then 1 mg every month.
Vitamin B12 has no potential side effects. If you experience side effects, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Common dosing schedule:
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Vitamin B12 may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, oral Vitamin B12 is an over-the-counter medicine which can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors.
On the other hand, injectable Vitamin B12 is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Vitamin B12 in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
Healthy Matters is Hong Kong’s leading health resource. Our mission is to help you make better health decisions and take control of your health.
Our team of experts is committed to producing reliable health content that is accurate, engaging and relevant, to cover your health & wellness journey from prevention to treatment.
Whether you are looking for trusted information on health conditions, wellbeing or looking for the right doctor or service in Hong Kong, we’re here to help!
Your health matters. Begin your health journey with Healthy Matters today!