Methylcobalamin Tablet Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, Warning, and Alternatives

Methylcobalamin Tablet is a potent vitamin B12 tablet that is often recommended to treat vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is very crucial for the growth and regular function of the brain and nerves. Whether you want to manage any medical issue or improve your overall health, these medications might be a go-to solution. This blog will help you understand Methylcobalamin tablet uses, benefits, side effects, warnings, and many more related facts. 

What is a Methylcobalamin Tablet?

Methylcobalamin tablet is a medication with the active component “Methylcobalamin”, a potent, bioactive form of vitamin B12, which is crucial for various physiological processes like nerve function, DNA synthesis, brain function, and red blood cell (RBC) formation. It is directly used by the body without needing to be converted, which makes it significantly effective for treating vitamin B12 deficiencies. Additionally, it can support brain health and the nervous system. These medications are available in the form of soft capsules. 

Methylcobalamin Tablets Uses

Methylcobalamin 500 mcg tablets are used for the treatment of the following issues:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Meets the need for required vitamin B12 levels. 

• Peripheral neuropathy: Repairs damaged nerves, improves nerve function, and reduces associated symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling sensations. 

• Megaloblastic anemia: Replenish lost vitamin B12, which helps increase red blood cells and manage this condition.

• Diabetic neuropathy: Reduces the symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain, and enhances nerve function. 

• Sleep disorders: Improves nerve function and regulates melatonin production, which supports quality sleep. 

• Cognitive health issues: Increase RBC formation, improve nerve function, and boost vitamin B12 levels, which collectively promote cognitive health. 

• Multiple sclerosis: Promote the repair of nerves and reduce nerve damage, which helps alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

Note: Use methylcobalamin tablets as directed on the label or as prescribed by the doctor. Avoid taking overdoses.

Key Benefits of Methylcobalamin Tablets

The following are the effective health benefits of methylcobalamin tablets:

• Support Nerve Health: Help repair damaged nerves by supporting myelin (insulating sheath that surrounds nerve cells) synthesis and converting homocysteine into methionine.

• Boost Energy Levels: By helping with red blood cell production and oxygen transport, these medications fight off fatigue and weakness and boost energy levels.

• Improve Brain & Cognitive Function: Promotes focus, memory, and mental clarity, and also slows down cognitive decline in people, especially those with increased omega-3 fatty acids.

• Promote Healthy Blood Formation: A study shows that vitamin B12 helps with the healthy red blood cell production and DNA synthesis. This improves overall blood cell health.

• Enhance Mood & Mental Health: By supporting the red blood cell formation, nerve functions, healthy sleep patterns, and brain health, methylcobalamin can improve mood and mental health.

Dosage and Administration of Methylcobalamin Tablets

It is important to take the medicine as prescribed and properly follow the administration instructions, as it ensures optimal effectiveness and safety.

Here are the methylcobalamin dosage guidelines:

Recommended Dosage:

• Initial Dose: 62.5 mcg 2 times a day for the initial 4 weeks.

• Maintenance Dose: 125 mcg 2 times a day after the first period.

Important Administration Instructions:

• Take it with or without food.

• Swallow the whole capsule; do not chew, crush, or break it.

In case of a Missed Dose:

• Have it immediately when you remember.

• However, if it's time to take the next dose, skip the missed one to avoid overdosing. Do not take 2 capsules at a time, as it can lead to some side effects.

Overdose Symptoms:

Seek emergency help immediately by calling 108 if you accidentally overdose on this medication and experience the following symptoms:

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Rashes or Skin Reactions

How to Take Methylcobalamin Tablets?

This is how you can take:

• Take 1 whole tablet with a glass of water, with or without food, and as prescribed by the healthcare providers. The dose can vary based on the severity of the vitamin B12 deficiency or the condition to be treated.

• Do not chew or crush it as it can release the dose at once and reduce its absorption.

• Take the tablet in the morning (30 minutes before eating) for increased energy or two hours after you have your meal.

• Avoid taking it close to bedtime as it can interrupt your sleep.

Tips for Best Results:

• Be consistent with time.

• Do not skip doses.

• Avoid alcohol and smoking.

Side Effects of Methylcobalamin 

Methylcobalamin 500 mcg tablets can cause side effects if not consumed properly:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Restlessness

• Irritation

• Nasal congestion

• Respiratory tract infections

• Flushing

Severe Side Effects:

• Liver Toxicity, as methylcobalamin can increase the levels of liver enzymes.

• Fluid Retention with symptoms such as sudden weight gain or leg swelling due to the increased plasma protein binding capacity of methylcobalamin.

• Allergic Reactions with signs like breathing issues or swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat.

Note: If any side effects last longer or worsen, especially severe effects, seek medical help immediately. 

Precautions and Warnings

Though methylcobalamin tablets are safe to take, precautions must be followed in these situations:

• Allergies: If you are allergic to cobalamin (vitamin B12) or cobalt, avoid taking Methylcobalamin tablets to prevent allergic reactions.

• Kidney or liver Disease: If you are living with a kidney or liver disorder, low doses are recommended. Always, get kidney function tests regularly to ensure the medicine is not causing complications.

• Pregnancy: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vitamin B12 supplements are safe to use during these periods for the infant's proper brain development and healthy RBC production. However, always seek your gynecologist first.

• Breastfeeding: These vitamin B12 tablets are safe to take during lactation periods as they help receive adequate vitamin B12 through breast milk. However, always take your gynecologist's guidance.

• Pre-existing Health Conditions: Individuals living with health issues like urinary bleeding, infection, liver problems, kidney stones, eye disease, or ulcers should inform their doctor about them. These conditions can affect the effectiveness and increase the side effects of the drug.

• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive intake of alcohol can prevent the body from absorbing methylcobalamin effectively. So, avoid or limit it.

• Pediatric Use: Avoid giving these tablets to children, especially those under 6 years of age, without consulting a pediatrician.

• Elderly People: Use the medicines with caution in older people, as they might already be living with other medical issues or may be on certain medications.

Interactions of Methylcobalamin Tablets 

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Methylcobalamin tablets can interact with the following drugs, lowering their effectiveness or increasing their side effects:

• Birth control pills.

• Cyclosporine

• Rifampin

• Warfarin

• Chloramphenicol

• Colchicine

• Antibiotics

• Oral diabetes medicines

• Barbiturates 

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

So, always discuss your current medicine, herbal products, or any supplements with your doctor to alleviate the risk of harmful interactions.

Drug-Food Interactions:

• Do not consume canned and oily foods with Methylcobalamin tablets, as they can reduce the efficacy of these medicines.

• Discuss the proper diet with your doctor. 

Dietary and Lifestyle Advice

Consider these tips to enhance the effectiveness and reduce the side effects of methylcobalamin tablets:

• Eat fresh fruits and green vegetables daily.

• Add fortified cereals to your diet.

• Drink milk and eat cheese, eggs, fish, and yoghurt.

• Avoid canned and oily foods.

• Avoid coffee and tea.

• Avoid alcohol and quit smoking.

Storage Tips

• Store the tablets in a dry, cool place, at room temperature between 20-25°C.

• Keep them away from direct sunlight, air, and heat.

• Keep them out of the reach of your children.

Alternative for Methylcobalamin Tablets 500 mcg

With advancements in medicine, alternatives are always available for treating a similar disease using another medicine which are manufactured using the same composition, potency, and form as methylcobalamin tablets. Hence, these can be used as a substitute:

Summing Up

Methylcobalamin tablets are an effective and safe solution to treat Vitamin B12 deficiency. Also, it addresses peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, megaloblastic anemia, pernicious anemia, etc. However, it also comes with some side effects. If you experience any, report them to your doctor. Also, use the medicine as prescribed, as overdose and prolonged use can lead to complications. If you have any pre-existing diseases, inform your doctor about them to prevent further risks.