Nascobal; generic vitamin B12 products (brands and formulations vary)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Oral tablets and injectable products are available in multiple strengths; verify whether the label states micrograms or milligrams.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A form of vitamin B12 used to treat and prevent vitamin B12 deficiency and its related conditions, including certain types of anaemia (such as pernicious anaemia) and neurological complications from deficiency.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with known hypersensitivity to cyanocobalamin or cobalt. Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy is a contraindication for some routes of administration.
Important precautions
The underlying cause of B12 deficiency should be identified and treated where possible. Intramuscular injections are required when absorption is impaired. Monitor potassium levels after starting treatment.
Common side effects
Common effects include injection-site reactions (for injectable forms), mild diarrhoea, itching, and rash.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Rare but serious effects include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and hypokalaemia at the start of treatment. Seek emergency care if breathing is affected or you feel faint after an injection.
Important interactions
Absorption may be reduced by metformin, proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, aminosalicylic acid, colchicine, and extended alcohol use. Tell your doctor about all your medicines.
Allergy considerations
Do not use if you have had a previous allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, or other cobalt-containing compounds.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
B12 is essential during pregnancy for foetal neurological development. Deficiency must be treated. Cyanocobalamin is generally considered safe ‚ confirm dose with your doctor.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Compatible with breastfeeding. Adequate maternal B12 intake is important for the infant's development. Use as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Children and older adults
B12 deficiency can affect infants of vegan mothers. Paediatric dosing requires specialist guidance. Elderly people absorbing poorly may need injectable forms.
Storage
Store in original packaging, protected from light. Injectable solutions should be kept at the temperature specified on the label. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
For regular supplement use, take the missed dose as soon as you remember and continue as normal. For injection schedules, contact your clinic if you miss an appointment.
Overdose
Vitamin B12 toxicity from oral doses is rare. If a large injection dose has been given accidentally, contact a healthcare professional for advice.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Nascobal; generic vitamin B12 products (brands and formulations vary)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Oral tablets and injectable products are available in multiple strengths; verify whether the label states micrograms or milligrams.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A form of vitamin B12 used to treat and prevent vitamin B12 deficiency and its related conditions, including certain types of anaemia (such as pernicious anaemia) and neurological complications from deficiency.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with known hypersensitivity to cyanocobalamin or cobalt. Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy is a contraindication for some routes of administration.
Important precautions
The underlying cause of B12 deficiency should be identified and treated where possible. Intramuscular injections are required when absorption is impaired. Monitor potassium levels after starting treatment.
Common side effects
Common effects include injection-site reactions (for injectable forms), mild diarrhoea, itching, and rash.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Rare but serious effects include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and hypokalaemia at the start of treatment. Seek emergency care if breathing is affected or you feel faint after an injection.
Important interactions
Absorption may be reduced by metformin, proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, aminosalicylic acid, colchicine, and extended alcohol use. Tell your doctor about all your medicines.
Allergy considerations
Do not use if you have had a previous allergic reaction to cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, or other cobalt-containing compounds.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
B12 is essential during pregnancy for foetal neurological development. Deficiency must be treated. Cyanocobalamin is generally considered safe ‚ confirm dose with your doctor.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Compatible with breastfeeding. Adequate maternal B12 intake is important for the infant's development. Use as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Children and older adults
B12 deficiency can affect infants of vegan mothers. Paediatric dosing requires specialist guidance. Elderly people absorbing poorly may need injectable forms.
Storage
Store in original packaging, protected from light. Injectable solutions should be kept at the temperature specified on the label. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
For regular supplement use, take the missed dose as soon as you remember and continue as normal. For injection schedules, contact your clinic if you miss an appointment.
Overdose
Vitamin B12 toxicity from oral doses is rare. If a large injection dose has been given accidentally, contact a healthcare professional for advice.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
