Methylcobalamin is the scientific name for the drug supplement of Vitamin B12, which is a naturally occurring nutrient in the human body. Vitamin B12 plays a pivotal role in regulating the body’s quantity of red blood cells and a deficiency of Vitamin B12 can cause health issues for the body. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in food items such as liver, tuna, salmon and trout. Man-made pharmaceutical version of Vitamin B12 is Methylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin is used as a supplement for the body in order to regulate any kind of deficiency of this vitamin. Along with this, it is also used to boost the immunity system of the body and to combat a number of physical affliction and diseases.
Methylcobalamin Composition and Nature:
Methylcobalamin is also known as Methyl-B12 or Mecobalamin and it is a synthetic form of Vitamin B12, which is a naturally occurring vitamin in the body and is also found in animal-based food items. It differs from other Vitamin B12 forms because it has metal-alkali bonds and an extra methyl group.
Methylcobalamin Uses and benefits:
As mentioned above, Methylcobalamin is used as a substitute supplement for Vitamin B12 deficiency in the body. Daily consumption of this supplement is helpful in boosting the memory and has an anti-ageing effect on the body. It also helps in boosting the metabolism of the body and increases the production of red blood cells. Along with this, Methylcobalamin is currently being used as substitute supplement for patients suffering from AIDS, asthma, celiac disease and sulfite sensitivity. Methylcobalamin is also used to cure oral and fungal infections.
Methylcobalamin Side Effects:
Some common side effects of Methylcobalamin are getting allergic rash on the skin and gastrointestinal problems. Along with this, some people might display symptoms such as headache, anxiety, nervousness and in some cases, uncontrollable movements of body parts such as legs and hands.
Methylcobalamin can show some serious side effects in patients who might suffer from other conditions. It is essential for everyone to consume this medicine only after clinical consultation. The serious side effects of Methylcobalamin can include formation of clots in limbs, depleted levels of potassium in the blood, buildup of fluid in the lungs, heart failure and in some cases, anaphylactic reactions such as swollen tongue and throat, and hives.
Methylcobalamin Dosage:
Always consult your doctor for the correct dose of Methylcobalamin. Doctor should be aware about the medical history as well as any current intake of medicines and supplements. This would help the doctor in prescribing the correct dosage of Methylcobalamin that can be consumed as per the condition. The typical dosage of Methylcobalamin is between 1 – 25 mcg per day.
How do Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 ) works:
Methylcobalamin protects nerve cells which is necessary for the normal growth of the nerve cells. It also helps in balancing the levels of homocysteine, which if produced in excess can cause inflammation of blood vessels. Methylcobalamin benefits also include, helping the body in generating new red blood cells and maintain the health of the body.
Precautions and Warning Related to Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12 ):
Following are some of the warnings and precautions to keep in mind before consuming Methylcobalamin. If you belong to any of the following category, please consult your doctor before consuming this medicine.
- Some people might be hypersensitive to Methylcobalamin or its active ingredients. In these cases, clinical supervision is needed before taking this drug.
- Consuming Methylcobalamin is not advisable for patients suffering from optic atrophy, which is a nerve condition that affects the eye.
- People who are suffering from infections or patients who have low iron level in their body should be careful before taking Methylcobalamin and should only do so after the consultation of the doctor.
- People with polycythemia are also advised to exercise caution before taking this drug and consult with their doctor.
- Studies are not conclusive in regards to whether Methylcobalamin is advisable to take during pregnancy or not. Some studies have shown that the safety of consuming Methylcobalamin during pregnancy can be determined by the form and dose in which it is being consumed. So, the forms of Methylcobalamin, which are low in doses and in the form of tablet, and which melts on the tongue, are safe for consumption during pregnancy. But always ensure that you consult your doctor before consuming any kind of pharmaceutical drug, including Methylcobalamin, during your pregnancy.
- It is not advised for mothers to consume Methylcobalamin if they are breastfeeding. Mother’s milk is a rich source of Vitamin B12 and consuming additional supplements while breastfeeding can have adverse effects on the baby.
Methylcobalamin Substitutes:
Supplements such as Cyancobalamin can help in overcoming the deficiency of Vitamin B12. Structurally, the difference between Methylcobalamin and Cyancobalamin is that the former contains a methyl group in its molecule while the latter contains a cyanide molecule. Cyanide can be toxic to the body if consumed in high doses. In effect, both these are supplements of Vitamin B12 but might have difference in the rate at which they are absorbed in the body. So even if both Methylcobalamin and Cyancobalamin are different forms of Vitamin B12, it is not advisable to self-administer these. The opinion of a clinical professional is mandatory before consuming any of these two.
Interactions of Methylcobalamin with other drugs:
Arsenic trioxide and chloramphenicol have been found to have serious interaction with Methylcobalamin. As a precaution, do disclose all kinds of pharmaceutical drugs and herbal supplements that you are consuming to your doctor in order to avoid any adverse drug interactions.
Methylcobalamin FAQs Answered:
1) Does consuming alcohol while taking Methylcobalamin have any adverse effects?
Ans: Yes, Methylcobalamin mixed with alcohol can have an adverse effect on health of the patient. Alcohol should be avoided while consuming this supplement.
2) Can taking Methylcobalamin lead to kind of any habit forming or dependence?
Ans: No habit forming tendencies have been observed in people after taking Methylcobalamin.
3) Is Methylcobalamin recommended for older people?
Ans: People above the age of 50 should exercise caution when taking Methylcobalamin and should consult their doctor before starting this medicine.
4) Will Methylcobalamin boost metabolism?
Ans: Indeed, Methylcobalamin have been proven to boost vitality and metabolism in the body. However, an increase in the level of Vitamin B12 in the body might be harmful in the long run. So, before consuming any B12 supplement, always get a clinic opinion in order to ascertain that the natural balance of your body is not harmed by the consumption of that supplement.
