Vitamin B12

Information About Vitamin B12

Uses of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is used in the treatment of Megaloblastic Anemia.

How Vitamin B12 Works

Vitamin B12 helps in metabolic functions that is important in cell replication, blood production, nucleic acid and protein synthesis, production of epithelial cells and maintenance of myelin in the central nervous system.

Side Effects of Vitamin B12

Nausea and vomiting, Diarrhea, Hot sensation, Diaphoresis, Pain or induration, Hypersensitive reaction, Anorexia, Headache

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Vitamin B12 Related Warnings

Alcohol Safe

There is no known interaction between alcohol and vitamin B12 when used concomitantly.

Pregnancy Not Safe

There are no animal reproduction studies, nor adequate and well controlled studies done in pregnant women with vitamin B12 and it is not known whether vitamin B12 can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. However, it is an essential vitamin and the requirements increase during pregnancy. Consult your doctor regarding the recommended amount that should be consumed during pregnancy.

Lactation Limited Data

Vitamin B12 appears in the milk of the lactating mother and the recommended amount should be consumed by the patient.

Driving Generally Safe

There is no data regarding the dangers of driving while taking Vitamin B12

Kidney Use With Care

Patients with kidney disease specifically those who are not in the dialysis treatment should be careful with the dose of Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9 and Vitamin B12 as it may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and reduce the kidney function.

Liver Limited Data

Vitamin B12 is safe to use for patient with liver disease. In fact, it is required for the health of the liver and lower levels of vitamin B12 correlates with higher degree of fibrosis in the liver at least for the non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.