Hydroxocobalamin Injection (B12)
1 mg/mL
Size: 30 mLHydroxocobalamin is a long-acting parenteral form of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) [1][2]. It is widely utilized in clinical settings for sustained parenteral vitamin B12 supplementation due to its prolonged tissue retention and slower systemic elimination compared with cyanocobalamin [2][4].
Sterile Hydroxocobalamin Injection is formulated to support healthcare providers in the treatment and prevention of vitamin B12 deficiency through reliable parenteral administration.
As a vital compound for cellular division and growth, hematopoiesis, and myelin synthesis, hydroxocobalamin plays a critical role in neural metabolism, DNA and RNA production, and carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. Demand for this active coenzyme precursor is particularly high in cells that undergo rapid division, such as bone marrow and epithelial cells [1][2].
More About This Product
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• Concentration: 1 mg/mL
• Volume: 30 mL Multi-Dose Vial
• Route of Administration: Intramuscular (IM) Use.
Hydroxocobalamin is formulated as a sterile parenteral solution utilized in clinical settings to treat and prevent vitamin B12 deficiency [3]. Adherence to strict aseptic technique is required during vial puncture and administration.
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Hydroxocobalamin serves as a precursor to the critical active coenzymes methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. These cofactors are essential for methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase enzymes. Methionine synthase is essential for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines required for DNA formation. L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase converts L-methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA during the degradation of propionate—a vital reaction for fat and protein metabolism. Replenishment prevents the neurological manifestations driven by methylmalonyl-CoA accumulation [2][4]. Hydroxocobalamin also possesses a high affinity for cyanide ions, a biochemical property that underlies its separate use in high-dose emergency toxicology protocols [4].
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Contraindications: Hydroxocobalamin should not be administered to patients with known hypersensitivity to hydroxocobalamin, cobalt, or any component of the formulation [3].
Precautions: Patients with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy should avoid use, as administration may accelerate optic nerve atrophy [4]. Patients with a significant hypersensitivity history should be evaluated carefully prior to therapy [3][4].
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The following medications may influence vitamin B12 status or therapeutic response:
Chloramphenicol: May interfere with the hematologic response in the treatment of vitamin B12–responsive anemia [4].
Gastrointestinal Absorption Inhibitors (PPIs, H2 Blockers, Metformin): Chronic use of medications such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, ranitidine, famotidine, or metformin may contribute to vitamin B12 deficiency through reduced oral absorption. The clinical relevance primarily applies to patients transitioning to or requiring parenteral therapy [3][4].
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Parenteral administration of vitamin B12 is generally well-tolerated. Reported adverse reactions following administration may include [3]:
General/Systemic: Feeling of generalized swelling; allergic reactions; anaphylaxis (rare).
Dermatological: Acneiform rash, erythema (skin redness), pruritus (itching).
Local/Injection Site: Pain, swelling, or irritation at the injection site.
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Pregnancy: Adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not been conducted. Vitamin B12 requirements increase during pregnancy, and hydroxocobalamin should be administered during pregnancy when clinically indicated [3].
Lactation: Hydroxocobalamin is excreted in human breast milk. Adequate vitamin B12 intake during lactation is important to support maternal and neonatal health [3].
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Store at USP Controlled Room Temperature 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze [3]. Store in the original carton until time of use. Safely discard any unused portion after the designated beyond-use date (BUD) in accordance with standard facility protocols for medical waste. Do not flush unused medications [3].
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[1] Markle HV, Greenway DC. Cobalamin. Critical reviews in clinical laboratory sciences. 1996; 33: 247-356.
[2] Herrmann W, Obeid R. Cobalamin deficiency. Subcell Biochem. 2012; 56: 301-322.
[3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Hydroxocobalamin Injection Professional Prescribing Information. DailyMed.
[4] StatPearls. Hydroxocobalamin. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Refer to the full prescribing information for complete safety and prescribing details.
