Methylcobalamin Injection Uses, Doses & Negative Side Effects

Methylcobalamin injections are a form of vitamin B12 commonly used in natural medicine. Studies have indicated that this form of the vitamin may be effective in resolving and/or preventing vitamin B12 deficiencies, as well as for various other purposes.

Methylcobalamin is one of the active metabolites of Vitamin B12 and has a critical role in the methylation process. It cannot be used as a singular source of vitamin B12, but must be combined with other forms of this vitamin as well.

Methylcobalamin is available in several forms, including topical solutions, oral preparations and injectable medications. Each of these forms is used for different purposes. Injections of methylcobalamin avoid the digestive tract and may be more rapidly available for the body to use.

According to the Natural Medicines Database, methylcobalamin, also known as Methyl B12, is considered likely safe when used appropriately. However, high doses of this vitamin may cause adverse effects. Below is some basic information specific to methylcobalamin injections, their side effects, possible drug interactions, appropriate dosages and contraindications.

Methylcobalamin

Vitamin Supplement

Brain Function

Mood & Sleep

Fatigue

How It Works:

• Supports brain cell health & nerve function
• Supports sleep, mood & memory
• Regulates healthy homocysteine levels

Dosage:

Between 1 - 25 mcg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Methylcobalamin Injection Uses

Methylcobalamin injections are prepared to be delivered intravenously or intramuscularly. Injectable methylcobalamin doesn’t pass through the digestive system, which means that it is likely to have a quicker effect on the body compared to oral pills.

Some people also believe injections to be more effective than oral preparations. However, some studies have shown that the effectiveness of oral and injectable methylcobalamin is similar. Sublingual formulations are another option that avoids the digestive tract for people who do not like getting needles.

According to the Natural Medicines Database, injectable methylcobalamin has been used for the following purposes:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Psoriasis
• Malignancy
• Hemorrhage
• Thyrotoxicosis
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Orthostatic tremor
• Anemia
• The prevention or treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency

Effectiveness of Methylcobalamin Injections

According to the Natural Medicines Database, research has shown that methylcobalamin injections are effective for several different purposes, including the treatment or prevention of vitamin B12 deficiency, pernicious anemia and Imerslund-Grasbeck disease.

Studies have also shown that injectable methylcobalamin is likely effective for the treatment of hyperhomocysteinemia and cyanide poisoning. In addition, methylcobalamin injections may be effective for age-related macular degeneration.

Studies have shown that methylcobalamin injections may not be effective in the treatment of stroke or circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Likewise, current research indicates that injectable methylcobalamin has no significant effect on cognitive performance.

Methylcobalamin Injection Dose

Methylcobalamin injections should always be administered by a trained medical practitioner, to ensure the correct dosage is used and to reduce the risk of side effects.

The Natural Medicines Database reports that methylcobalamin injections are considered likely safe when used appropriately. However, because of the risks associated with higher dosages of vitamin B12, taking the right dose of injectable methylcobalamin is highly recommended.

The proper dosage typically varies based on the vitamin’s intended purpose, your treatment goals and your tolerance level. Past studies involving this vitamin have used the following dosages:

• Vitamin B12 Deficiency – 1000 mcg of methylcobalamin injected intramuscularly once daily for up to ten days.
• Hereditary Sideroblastic Anemia – 100 mcg of methylcobalamin injected intramuscularly once per month for four months.
• Depression – 1 mg of methylcobalamin injected intramuscularly once per week for four weeks.
• Cognitive Function – 1000 mcg injected daily for five days, followed by a monthly injection of 1000 mcg for five months.

Keep in mind that these dosages are mere guidelines derived from past research studies. Depending on the circumstances, you may need more or less methylcobalamin. Talk to your doctor to determine the dosage that is appropriate for you.

Oral preparations of methylcobalamin are considered likely safe for children, pregnant women and lactating women. However, insufficient evidence exists with regard to the safety of injectable methylcobalamin for members of these populations.

Methylcobalamin Injection Side Effects

Methylcobalamin injections may cause the following side effects:

• Dysphagia
• Nausea
• Hypokalemia
• Gout

Some people have also had allergic reactions to methylcobalamin injections. If you believe you are experiencing an allergic reaction because of methylcobalamin injections, seek medical treatment immediately.

The body requires a certain amount of vitamin B12 in order to function properly. However, too much vitamin B12 can be dangerous. Studies have found that high levels of B12 may be linked to decreased survival rates in elderly patients who are hospitalized.

High levels of vitamin B12 have also been identified as a sign of adult-onset Still’s disease. Furthermore, some studies have suggested a link between too much vitamin B12 and the development of lung or prostate cancer.

Taking Methylcobalamin Injections Safely

Methylcobalamin injections may interact with certain prescription medications and supplements, including chloramphenicol, folic acid, potassium and vitamin C.

People who suffer from certain conditions, including megaloblastic anemia, Leber’s disease, cobalt sensitivity and cobalamin sensitivity, should not take methylcobalamin injections unless otherwise directed by a licensed physician.

Because high dosages of methylcobalamin may cause severe symptoms and adverse effects, you should never take more of this vitamin than you need. When beginning supplementation for the first time, start with a low dose and gradually increase the amount you consume.

Before beginning methylcobalamin injections or any other supplement, talk to your doctor to make sure that the supplement is safe and appropriate for you. If you begin experiencing worrisome symptoms while taking methylcobalamin injections, discontinue your use of the supplement and talk to your doctor.

Seek immediate medical treatment if you experience acute adverse effects while using this product.

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