Vitamin B12 is a vitamin that is useful for the formation of proteins, blood cells, and tissues. Daily vitamin B12 needs can be obtained through food or additional supplements. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in fish, shellfish, meat, liver, eggs, milk, yogurt, and cheese. In addition, vitamin B12 can also be found in cereals that have been fortified or fortified with this vitamin.

In general, the daily requirement of vitamin B12 can be met by consuming the foods or drinks mentioned above. However, in people who suffer from digestive disorders, cancer, HIV infection, or malnutrition, vitamin B12 deficiency can occur, so vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) supplements are needed. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also occur in pregnant women, the elderly, people who often consume excessive amounts of alcohol, and vegetarians.

Precautions Before Using Vitamin B12

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to synthetic vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin).
Tell your doctor if you have low levels of iron, potassium, or folate.
Tell your doctor if you have blood in your urine (hematuria).
Tell your doctor if you have polycythemia.
Immediately consult a doctor if you experience symptoms of a drug allergy or an overdose of cyanocobalamin.

How to Use Vitamin B12 Correctly

Vitamin and mineral supplements are consumed to meet the body's daily vitamin and mineral needs, especially when the intake of vitamins and minerals from food alone is not enough. Keep in mind, supplements are only used as a complement, not as a substitute for nutrients from food.

Take a vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) supplement as directed on the package or as recommended by your doctor. Do not swallow cyanocobalamin whole in lozenge or sublingual form. Cyanobalamin in sublingual form needs to be placed under the tongue until it melts by itself.

Do not bite, chew, or crush delayed-release tablets. Swallow directly with a glass of water. If you are taking vitamin B12 in the form of a chewable tablet, chew it before swallowing it. If you want to take vitamin B12 in syrup form, use the measuring spoon included in the package. Do not use a regular tablespoon because the measurements are different.

Interaction of Vitamin B12 with Other Drugs

Vitamin B12 used together with other drugs can cause interactions, namely:

Decreased absorption of vitamin B12, if taken with colchicine, metformin, drugs and supplements containing potassium, aminoglycoside antibiotics, anticonvulsant drugs, and drugs to treat stomach disorders.
Increases the chance of side effects and interactions with drugs that affect the bone marrow, such as chloramphenicol.
In addition to drugs, consuming alcoholic beverages can also reduce vitamin B12 levels in the body.

Side Effects and Dangers of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is safe to use in recommended doses. However, if used in excess of doses, vitamin D is at risk of causing the following side effects:

Headache
Dizzy
Nauseous
Gag
Diarrhea
Anxiety disorders
Involuntary or uncontrolled movements

Although rare, the following side effects can also occur:

Low levels of potassium in the blood, usually characterized by constipation, irregular heartbeat, and increased frequency of urination.
Congestive heart failure.
Blood clots in the hands and feet.
Anaphylactic shock, which can be characterized by difficulty breathing and decreased consciousness.
Accumulation of fluid in the lungs.