Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) Injection

CPN: 63009242

Trade Names: CoB alequin® for Cats & Small Dogs (<22 lbs), CoB alequin® for Dogs (22 lbs & Over), Cyanocobalamin 3000 mcg, Cyanocobalamin 5000 mcg, Vita-Jec® B 1000 mcg Injection

Revised: May 21, 2019

Published: December 13, 2013

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Vitamin B12 is also known as cyanocobalamin or cobalamin. It is a water soluble

vitamin involved in many enzymatic reactions required for normal cell growth and

function. Inadequate absorption of this vitamin due to gastrointestinal disease or a

diet lacking sufficient levels can lead to a Vitamin B12 deficiency. A genetic

malabsorption syndrome has been reported in certain breeds of dogs which can

lead to low levels of Vitamin B12. Inappropriate levels of Vitamin B12 can also

indirectly contribute to a folate (Vitamin B9) deficiency. Vitamin B12

(Cyanocobalamin) Injection is a prescription medication and can only be obtained

from a veterinarian. It is available in an injectable form.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Vitamin B12 is also known as cyanocobalamin or cobalamin. It is a water soluble

vitamin involved in many enzymatic reactions required for normal cell growth and

function. Inadequate absorption of this vitamin due to gastrointestinal disease or a

diet lacking sufficient levels can lead to a Vitamin B12 deficiency. A genetic

malabsorption syndrome has been reported in certain breeds of dogs which can lead

to low levels of Vitamin B12. Inappropriate levels of Vitamin B12 can also indirectly

contribute to a folate (Vitamin B9) deficiency. Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)

Injection is a prescription medication and can only be obtained from a veterinarian. It

is available in an injectable form.

WHAT IS THIS DRUG?

A water soluble vitamin

Given by subcutaneous or intramuscular injections

REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:

Dogs and cats suffering from stomach or intestinal conditions such as

inflammatory bowel disease or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency which may lead

to malabsorption of Vitamin B12. A deficiency in this vitamin can contribute to

poor appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, weight loss, failure to thrive, and blood cell

abnormalities.

WHAT DOGS/CATS SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION?

Safety in breeding, pregnant or nursing pets has not been established

Animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug should not take this

medication

DIRECTIONS:

Read and follow the prescription label carefully.

Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed. Ideally, give this

medication at the same time(s) daily.

Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian directs. Several weeks of

supplementation therapy may be required prior to improvements being noted. The

duration of treatment is usually dependent upon the response to the medication and

certain conditions may require lifelong treatment. Do not skip doses or stop giving the

medication without consulting your veterinarian.

Baseline blood work is often required to assess your pet's general health and current

cobalamin and folate levels may be needed prior to starting this medication. Periodic

blood work to monitor this medication's effects on the body is also advised if long term

therapy is necessary. Dose adjustments may be made based upon these results and

an assessment of how your dog or cat is responding clinically.

Subcutaneous (under the skin) or intramuscular (into the muscle) injections may be

easily administered in the comfort of your home if your pet requires this form of

therapy. If you are advised to provide these injections to your pet at home, follow

your veterinarian’s directions carefully. Injections require certain materials and a skill

set for safe delivery. Inappropriate injection and delivery technique or use of nonsterile materials can result in infections. If you are unsure how your pet will react to

an injection, request assistance or demonstration by your veterinarian. Ensure that

you dispose of empty medication vials, needles, and syringes into an appropriate

container.

This supplement can take several days to have full effects within the body, but side

effects can occur immediately. Visible improvements are not always evident with

supplements.

Call ahead for refills.

WHAT IF A DOSE IS MISSED?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose,

skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at

the same time.

WHAT TO TELL/ASK YOUR VETERINARIAN BEFORE GIVING

THIS MEDICATION?

Talk to your veterinarian about:

When your pet will need to be rechecked

What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this

drug

What are the risks and benefits of using this drug

Tell your veterinarian about:

If your pet has experienced side effects on other drugs/products

If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever

If your pet has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever

If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever

All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your

pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may

want to check that all of your pet’s medications can be given together.

If your pet is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your pet

STORAGE AND WARNINGS:

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) Injection should be stored in a childproof container

in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.

Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.

Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

All injectable medications have the potential to cause an immediate allergic or

anaphylactic reaction. Affected animals may have a swelling, hives, changes in

respiration and display signs of agitation. This can be a severe and life

threatening reaction, immediate treatment with epinephrine is often required.

This medication is usually well tolerated and adverse reactions are uncommon

at recommended doses

If you notice anything else unusual, contact your veterinarian

This supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may last

longer in pets with liver or kidney disease

CAN THIS DRUG BE GIVEN WITH OTHER MEDICATIONS?

No significant drug interactions are known

Do not give new food or medications without first talking to your veterinarian

If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications,

contact your veterinarian

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I KNOW OF OR SUSPECT THERE

HAS BEEN AN OVERDOSE?

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet receives more than the prescribed

amount.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Notify your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens

despite this treatment.

As with all prescribed medicines, Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) Injection should

only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the

condition for which it was prescribed.

This is just a summary of information about Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)

Injection. If you have any questions or concerns about it or the condition it was

prescribed for, please contact your veterinarian.

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