Hydroxocobalamin Injection

HYDROXOCOBALAMIN (hye drox oh koe BAL a min) prevents and treats low vitamin B12 levels in your body. It is used in people who do not get enough vitamin B12 from their diet or when their digestive tract does not absorb enough. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in maintaining the health of your nervous system and red blood cells. It is a form of vitamin B12.

This medication is for injection into a muscle or a vein. It is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• High blood pressure
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Kidney disease
• Low levels of folic acid in the blood
• Megaloblastic anemia
• An unusual or allergic reaction to hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

• Chemotherapy
• Chloramphenicol

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Visit your care team regularly. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.

You may need to follow a special diet. Talk to your care team. Limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.