Cobalamin

(koe-bal-ah-min)

Other names for this medication: Cobalequin, Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12

Cobalamin is also known as vitamin B12.

•Used as a supplement for patients with low cobalamin levels.

•Oral tablets may be given with or without food.

•The injectable formulation is given under the skin (subcutaneously)

•Vitamin B12 levels should improve after the first month of treatment.

•This medication does not typically cause side effects. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns about potential side effects.

Description

•Vitamin

•Available as oral tablets and injectable liquids

Uses

The injectable form of vitamin B12 is not FDA-approved specifically for animals, but it is approved for use in humans. At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in other species (extra-label), such as for:

•Treatment of low cobalamin levels (vitamin B deficiency) in dogs, cats, and other species

The oral form of vitamin B12 is a nutritional supplement that is not approved by the FDA. Some supplements are labeled for use in dogs and cats for the treatment of low cobalamin levels (vitamin B deficiency).

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal currently has or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use in animals:

•That are allergic to this medication

Use oral, flavored tablets with caution in animals:

•With chicken allergies

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Oral tablets may be given with or without food.

•Vitamin B12 injections are given under the skin (subcutaneously).

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common:

•Cobalamin injections may cause stinging at the injection site.

Severe:

•Fever, rashes, pale gums, or trouble breathing. While very unlikely, these may be signs of an allergic reaction. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

How will I know it's working?

•Vitamin B12 levels should improve after the first month of treatment. Your animal’s signs should improve over this time.

•Your veterinarian will need to perform follow-up tests to see how well this medication is working.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•The effect of this medication may last for a few days after the last dose.

How long do I give it for?

•This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. Make sure to refill the prescription to avoid interruptions in treatment.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Protect from light.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

‐The chewable forms of this medication are meant to be appealing to animals. Secure storage that is well out of reach is important to prevent accidental overdose.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash it down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.