VITAPLEX 2500 INJECTION
METHYLCOBALAMIN USP
What it does
Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that helps your body produce red blood cells and maintain healthy nerve cells.
Commonly used for: Vitamin B12 deficiency, Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), Anemia
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:42:14 · updated 2026-09-29 04:00:05
About this medicine
Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that helps your body produce red blood cells and maintain healthy nerve cells.
What it treats
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Anemia
How it works
It supports the production of red blood cells and helps in the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Who it's for
It is suitable for individuals with low vitamin B12 levels or conditions affecting nerve health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: methylcobalamin
BNF-referencedMethylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12, essential for various biological processes including DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neurological function. It is particularly important in the metabolism of homocysteine, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Methylcobalamin is often used in the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency and associated conditions such as neuropathy and megaloblastic anemia.
Indications
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Megaloblastic anemia
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Neuropathic pain
- Multiple sclerosis
Dosage
Children: For paediatric patients, refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing guidelines.
Adults: The typical adult dosage for methylcobalamin is 500 micrograms to 1,000 micrograms administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously, usually once daily for the initial treatment, followed by maintenance doses as needed.
Mechanism of action
Methylcobalamin serves as a cofactor for the enzyme methionine synthase, which catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. This reaction is crucial in the synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), an important methyl donor in numerous methylation reactions within the body. Methylcobalamin also plays a role in myelin formation and the maintenance of nerve cells.
Pharmacodynamics
Methylcobalamin exhibits neuroprotective effects, promoting nerve regeneration and repair in peripheral neuropathy. It is believed to enhance nerve conduction and improve neurological function. The physiological effects are primarily attributed to its role in methylation processes and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Pharmacokinetics
Methylcobalamin is water-soluble and is absorbed in the intestine. The bioavailability can be affected by gastrointestinal health, and intrinsic factor is not required for its absorption. It is distributed throughout the body, with high concentrations in the liver, kidneys, and brain. The elimination half-life of methylcobalamin is approximately 6 hours, and it is excreted primarily in the urine.
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Rash
- Pruritus
Precautions
- Monitor patients with Leber's disease due to potential optic nerve damage.
- Caution in patients with allergies to cobalt or vitamin B12.
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment.
Pregnancy
Methylcobalamin is classified as a category A drug. It is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
Breast-feeding
Methylcobalamin is excreted in breast milk. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Injections
- Sublingual tablets
- Oral solutions
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: methylcobalamin
PubChem CID 10898559Molecular formula: C63H91CoN13O14P
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
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