Hydroxocobalamin

Hydroxocobalamin, also known as hydroxycobalamin, is a form of Vitamin B12 found in food and used as a dietary supplement. As a supplement it is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency including pernicious anemia. Other uses include treatment for cyanide poisoning, Leber's optic atrophy, and toxic amblyopia. It is given by injection into a muscle or vein, by pill or sublingually. Side effects are generally few. They may include diarrhea, feeling sick, hot flushes, itchiness, low blood potassium, allergic reactions, and high blood pressure. Normal doses are considered safe in pregnancy. No overdosage or toxicity has been reported with this drug. Hydroxocobalamin is the natural form of vitamin B12 and a member of the cobalamin family of compounds. It is found in both raw and cooked beef, together with other cobalamins. Hydroxocobalamin, or another form of vitamin B12, are required for the body to make DNA. Hydroxocobalamin was first isolated in 1949. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Hydroxocobalamin is available as a generic medication. Commercially it is made using one of a number of types of bacteria.