The use of Vitamin B12 to treat Vitamin B12 deficiency or to treat any medical condition requires medical supervision.
Cyanocobalamin should not be used in those with Leber's optic atrophy. This is a congenital disorder associated with chronic cyanide intoxication (e.g., from tobacco smoke). Decreased levels of B12 have been associated with reduced ability to detoxify the cyanide in exposed individuals and cyanocobalamin may increase the risk of irreversible neurological damage from optic atrophy in those affected with the disorder. Hydroxocobalamin can aid in the detoxification of cyanide. This form of B12 is an acceptable form for B12 supplementation in those with this disorder.
A typical dose of B12 (cyanocobalamin) in nutritional supplements used by pregnant women and nursing mothers is 12 micrograms daily. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should only use doses higher than this if recommended by their physicians.
Administration of doses of Vitamin B12 greater than 10 micrograms daily may produce a hematological response in those with anemia secondary to folate deficiency. |
