GENERIC NAME: CYANOCOBALAMIN - NASAL (SYE-an-oh-koh-BAL-uh-min)
BRAND NAME(S): Nascobal
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat vitamin B12 shortage. This product should not be used to test vitamin B12 absorption (Schilling test).
HOW TO USE: This medication is usually used once a week in the nose or as directed by your doctor. Use this medicine at least one hour before or after hot food or drink. Learn the proper way to use this from your pharmacist or doctor and follow all instructions carefully. Certain conditions may require lifelong use of this drug. Treatment is usually postponed when nasal congestion, common cold or allergies are present.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, nausea, dizziness or nasal congestion may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Though very unlikely to occur, notify your doctor if you develop any of the following: muscle cramps or weakness, leg or arm swelling or pain, tingling of the hands or feet. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: Leber's disease (an eye problem), allergies (especially drug or food allergies). Do not use folic acid in place of vitamin B12 treatments. Limit alcohol use as it may affect the level of vitamin B12 in your body. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially of: colchicine, para-aminosalicylic acid. Also report the use of drugs that can affect blood cell production such as: anti-cancer drugs, chloramphenicol, zidovudine, ganciclovir. Methotrexate, pyrimethamine and certain antibiotics may interfere with folic acid and vitamin B12 blood test results. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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