What is this medication?

HYDROXOCOBALAMIN (hye drox oh koe BAL a min) prevents and treats low vitamin B12 levels in your body. It is used in people who do not get enough vitamin B12 from their diet or when their digestive tract does not absorb enough. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in maintaining the health of your nervous system and red blood cells. It is a form of vitamin B12.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Primabalt-RP

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• High blood pressure
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Kidney disease
• Low levels of folic acid in the blood
• Megaloblastic anemia
• An unusual or allergic reaction to hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, cobalt, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for injection into a muscle or a vein. It is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

• Chemotherapy
• Chloramphenicol

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team regularly. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.

You may need to follow a special diet. Talk to your care team. Limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking to get the best benefit.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.