Generic
Mecobalamin
20 brands available in the market
At a glance
Mecobalamin is an active form of vitamin B12 used for peripheral neuropathy and megaloblastic anemia. It helps maintain myelin integrity, neuronal function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis.
Description
Mecobalamin is one of the two coenzyme forms of vitamin B12. It differs from cyanocobalamin in that the cyano group at the cobalt is replaced with a methyl group. It is a cofactor in the enzyme methionine synthase which functions to transfer methyl groups for the regeneration of methionine from homocysteine. It is required for myelin integrity, neuronal function, proper red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. Mecobalamin helps in the synthesis of neuronal lipids, regeneration of axonal nerves, promotes axonal transport, and has neuroprotective activity.
Indications
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Alcoholic neuropathy
- Drug-induced neuropathy
- Entrapment neuropathy
- Lumbago, intercostal neuralgia
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease
- Bell's palsy
- Megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency
Therapeutic class
Drugs for Megaloblastic Anemia
Pharmacological class
Vitamin B12 Analog
Pharmacology
Mecobalamin is the active coenzyme form of vitamin B12 that acts as a cofactor for methionine synthase enzyme. It helps maintain myelin integrity, neuronal function, and red blood cell formation.
Mechanism of action
Maintains myelin integrity and promotes red blood cell production.
Dosage
Oral (Adult): 1500 mcg/day in 3 divided doses, after meals
Injection (Adult):
- Peripheral neuropathy: 500 mcg IM/IV, 3 times weekly
- Megaloblastic anemia: 500 mcg IM/IV, 3 times weekly; after 2 months, maintenance: 500 mcg every 1-3 months
Administration
- Oral: May be taken with or without food
- Injection: Administered IM/IV by a doctor or nurse
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Oral: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Injection: Rash, headache, hot sensation, diaphoresis, pain/induration at IM injection site
Potentially Fatal: Anaphylactoid reactions (parenteral)
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use for months if there is no response after a certain period
- Avoid prolonged large doses in patients handling mercury or mercury compounds
- Consult doctor during pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Mecobalamin or any components
Drug interactions
- Neomycin, aminosalicylic acid, H2-blockers, colchicine reduce GI absorption
- Oral contraceptives reduce serum concentrations
- Parenteral chloramphenicol reduces effects in anemia
Food interactions
No food interactions known.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Limited data; however, vitamin B12 is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Vitamin B12 is distributed into breast milk; the American Academy of Pediatrics considers its use to be usually compatible with breastfeeding.
Pediatric use
Not recommended for use in children.
Geriatric use
No special precautions needed in elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No specific precautions for renal or hepatic impairment.
Overdose effects
No specific overdose information available; symptomatic and supportive treatment.
Storage conditions
Store at room temperature, protected from moisture and light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Mecobalamin