It is known that vitamin B12 is needed by the human body, since it takes part in the production of red blood cells and DNA synthesis, it helps the brain and central nervous system to work properly. Its deficiency adversely affects the functioning of vital organs, reduces energy levels. This vitamin, which is highly soluble in water, is also called cobalamin. Some foods are its natural source, but with an acute deficiency of B12, the vitamin complex is prescribed in the form of an injection or tablets.

Useful properties of vitamin B12

It has long been established that vitamin B12 is present in the human body in the following forms:

• cyanocobalamin;
• hydroxycobalamin.

Both species are required by man, since they take part in the breakdown of many substances.

The beneficial properties of vitamin B12 are as follows:

• the formation of certain sections of the DNA molecule- this is the answer to the question why vitamin B12 is so important for the female body, the transfer of hereditary information is associated with pregnancy planning;
• restoration of brain function- without vitamin B12, cell division of this organ does not occur, and a violation of its work strikes at other systems;
• acceleration of the formation of red blood cells- since red blood cells are oxygen transporters to all organs, with a lack of vitamin B12, the development of the body is disrupted;
• protecting the liver from harmful substances- when exposed to toxic compounds that come from drinking alcohol, taking medications or drugs, the human body suffers primarily from the liver, and cobalamin is able to cleanse it and restore the functions of the organ;
• preventing the formation of gallstones;
• strengthening the walls of blood vessels and preventing the appearance of cholesterol plaques- under the influence of vitamin B12, the walls of blood vessels become stronger, and the level of cholesterol in the blood decreases;
• strengthening the cardiovascular system- cobalamin has the ability to restore the heart rhythm and makes the heart muscle stronger;
• help in the fight against diseases of the musculoskeletal system- in particular, B12 is used as an additional agent in the treatment of rickets and osteoporosis;
• elimination of signs of allergic reactions- the role of cobalamin is to relieve itching, peeling, redness and other symptoms of allergies on the skin;
• providing protection to mucous membranes- protects from the negative effects of irritants, relieves inflammatory processes.

It can be concluded that vitamin B12, of course, is needed by the human body as a whole, as indicated by its many beneficial properties.

Benefits for Women

The presence of vitamin B12 in the female body is very important because it helps with conception and childbearing. In addition, it protects the bones of postmenopausal women, making them stronger. As you know, at this stage, hormonal changes occur in the female body, and calcium stores are also reduced.

In addition, vitamin B12 actively fights age-related changes. It moisturizes the skin, eliminates its pallor, pigmentation, which is especially important for women. This vitamin is often included in masks, creams and other cosmetic products from the age series.

On a note! According to scientists, women who have crossed the forty-year milestone definitely need vitamin B12 to maintain good physical shape. To start the fat burning process, the body needs a signal from the brain. And since with a deficiency of a valuable element, the activity of the organ slows down, the rate of breakdown of body fat decreases.

Natural sources of B12

To maintain the level of vitamin B12 is normal, you need to include products with its content in the daily menu.

On a note! Sometimes, even with the systematic use of products containing cobalamin, the body is deficient in the element. The fact is that it is poorly absorbed in the organs of the digestive system, and calcium helps it to be better absorbed. With a deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body, doctors prescribe a vitamin complex in injections or tablets.

Stores of vitamin B12 are located in the liver. It is partly produced by bacteria that live in the intestines. It is believed that natural sources of cobalamin are animal products. Indeed, it is found in the liver and meat of animals, eggs, fish. But thanks to the modern development of the food industry, vitamin B12 can be obtained from other ingredients. An example of this is soy milk or breakfast cereals.

Top 10 foods with B12

The main reserves of vitamin B12 in such products:

• beef liver;
• sardine;
• lamb meat;
• Atlantic mackerel;
• nutritional yeast;
• salmon;
• cow meat (beef);
• Chees Feta;
• cottage cheese;
• chicken eggs.

It is these products that play a significant role in the enrichment of the human body with vitamin B12.

Beef liver

A useful product with a high content of vitamin B12 and other components. You need only 30 g per day to enrich the body with the daily norm of cobalamin. When buying beef liver, it is important to pay attention to its appearance, which indicates the degree of freshness and quality of the product. In addition, its use is an excellent prevention of anemia, since this ingredient contains iron, folic acid and other beneficial substances for the female and male body.

Sardine

Another product that is second only to beef liver in terms of vitamin B12 content. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in fish meat, which helps to strengthen the heart muscle and blood vessels. Regular consumption of sardine helps to get rid of asthma and reduce inflammation.

lamb meat

Differs in softness and pleasant taste. It includes a large number of vitamins and trace elements, among which B12 is necessary for the body. Lamb meat improves immunity, thereby preventing various diseases.

Atlantic mackerel

This type of fish is the leader in the content of nutrients, including vitamin B12. Those who want to adhere to proper nutrition should include it in their menu when compiling a diet. Do not confuse Atlantic mackerel with king mackerel, as they differ somewhat in composition.

nutritional yeast

It is far from a secret that there are people in the world who do not consume meat products. For vegetarians, nutritional yeast has been created that is rich in vitamin B12. And not only this element is included in their composition. Among the useful components, it is also worth noting the protein, which contains half of all the amino acids that the human body cannot produce.

Salmon

Salmon also contains a lot of vitamin B12 and D. However, the maximum benefit can be obtained from the meat of fish caught in natural reservoirs. Salmon grown under artificial conditions specifically for sale is stuffed with harmful substances.

On a note! According to research results, regular consumption of salmon makes it possible to strengthen the skeleton, slow down its aging. This, in turn, reduces the risk of fractures in people over the age of 65.

Beef

The meat of a domestic cow is an ideal source of protein. In addition, it enriches the body with vitamin B12, A, E, as well as antioxidants, which actively fight the growth of cancer cells.

Chees Feta

Feta cheese contains many nutrients, including vitamin B12. It is usually made from sheep's milk, which also contains riboflavin and calcium. It is noticed that when eating feta cheese, you can get rid of headaches.

Cottage cheese

The value of cottage cheese has been known for a long time. It is one of the main sources of calcium, protein and vitamin B12. It is useful for children and adults. Calcium works with cobalamin to help strengthen bones.

Eggs

Another product of animal origin, which contains a lot of vitamin B12. They also contain choline, which has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the liver.

On a note! The statement is known that in order to preserve all the vitamins, it is desirable to use the product in its raw form. But it does not apply to B12. The content of this element will remain the same high, even if the product is subjected to heat treatment.

Table of foods containing vitamin B12

The table shows a group of foods that contain a lot of vitamin B12.

Product, 100 g	The amount of vitamin B12, mcg
beef liver
Pig liver
chicken liver
Octopus
Mackerel
Pork
Beef
Rabbit meat
eggs, sour cream
hard cheese

Daily rates

The daily rate of cobalamin required for the full functioning of the body depends on the age of the person, as well as other factors:

• a child under 13 needs 2.2 mcg;
• young people 15–25 years old will need 2.4 mcg;
• people over 25 years old need 2.5-2.6 mcg B12;
• women when carrying a child - from 2.6 mcg;
• women during breastfeeding - from 2.8 mcg.

Thus, vitamin B12 plays an important role in the functioning of the human body. It must be remembered that alcoholic beverages, alkalis, hormonal drugs and sleeping pills interfere with the absorption of cobalamin. It interferes with the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestines by long-term intake of potassium. In addition, it is not recommended to combine this element with ascorbic acid, corticosteroids, neuroleptic and anti-tuberculosis drugs.

Much has been said about the benefits of B vitamins. Its representatives are of paramount importance. For example, in order for a woman to have a dazzling appearance, it is necessary to regularly replenish her body with them. They are available, they can be purchased at any pharmacy. Vitamins are packaged in ampoules and can be both water-based and oil-based.

The role of vitamin B12 in the body

Cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) was discovered in 1948. It was isolated from raw liver. For a long time, scientists could not understand why patients who took raw liver in small quantities managed to overcome pernicious anemia.

Since then, vitamin B12 and its effect on the body have been studied quite well, it remains only to understand that this is an expensive gift of nature that should be used wisely. Vitamin B12 helps to avoid the effects of stress, it is he who, with the help of vitamins B5, B9 and C, helps block stress hormones, helps restore nerve cells and participates in the construction of new ones, that is, he is an active participant in the processes of amino acid biosynthesis and DNA and RNA synthesis. The substance improves the process of blood coagulation, reduces the amount of cholesterol in it.

Vitamin B12 can be obtained from food or supplemented through tablets and injections. Cyanocobalamin is found in animal products, which is why vegetarians tend to suffer from its lack in the body. It is not synthesized in plants.

Use of vitamin B12

It is much more convenient to use vitamin B12 in ampoules. It is a slightly pink liquid. Indications for injections of cyanocobalamin may be trigeminal neuralgia, hepatitis, neurodermatitis, anemia, Down syndrome, as well as migraine, diabetic neuritis, radiation sickness, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy. This vitamin has an impact on reproductive function - both female and male. It has a beneficial effect on the human immune system. If there is not enough vitamin B12 in the body of HIV-infected people, then the disease progresses much faster.

It is impossible to prescribe B12 injections in the presence of erythrocytosis, hypersensitivity to the drug, it is also necessary to exercise caution in malignant and benign tumors and angina pectoris.

How to properly inject vitamin B12

As mentioned above, vitamin B 12 belongs to the group of vitamins. It is widely used in traditional medicine as one of the components used to treat various diseases or for their prevention. Therefore, if cyanocobalamin is prescribed by a doctor, then this is not subject to discussion, but if someone independently decided to pierce vitamin B12 in ampoules, the instructions for use in this case are subject to detailed study.

First of all, you need to know that cyanocobalamin can be used intravenously, subcutaneously, intramuscularly. And the instructions state in detail that it cannot be used together with drugs that increase blood clotting, it is also impossible to mix vitamins B1, B6 and B12 in one syringe, in addition, if the patient has an allergic reaction to vitamin B1, then B12 can strengthen significantly. It is impossible to combine cyanocobolamin with riboflavin and ascorbic acid, but colchicine, antiepileptic drugs and salicylates can reduce the degree of its absorption by the body. And there are many more nuances that only a doctor can know, so only he can fully answer the question of how to inject vitamin B12.

The use of vitamins in various diseases

Vitamin B12 in ampoules, the price of which is quite acceptable - from 17 to 25 rubles, depending on the manufacturer, has a significant effect in the treatment of various diseases. As practice shows, many people pierce cyanocobalamin when such signs of deficiency of this vitamin appear:

Headache and dizziness;

Fatigue and weakness;

Irritability, neuritis and nervousness;

The appearance of sores on the tongue and in the oral cavity;

Paleness of the skin;

Numbness;

Decreased appetite, back pain and sleep disturbance.

This drug is prescribed by doctors for well-defined diseases and for their prevention. For what diseases is B12 prescribed, how to inject it correctly?

The course for prevention can be from 7 to 15 days, while injections are made from 200 mcg to 500 mcg per day.

Diseases associated with the nervous system of the central and peripheral:

The first 3 days daily, 200 mcg;

The next 4 days daily, 300 mcg.

If no complications occur within seven days, the course of treatment ends. If complications occur, the dose increases:

5 days daily, 400 mcg;

The next 3 days daily, 500 mcg.

Another disease is quite serious, arising due to a lack of B12 in the body - anemia. A characteristic feature of this ailment is that it develops almost asymptomatically and slowly, but, as a rule, affects the nervous system. In the course of treatment, along with other drugs, cyanocobalamin is prescribed at a dose of 200 to 300 mcg, if complications arise, then it increases to 500 mcg and is administered 1 or 2 times a day. If the patient's condition worsens, the dose can reach up to 1000 mcg. After 10 days, it can be reduced, but for another 3 months, the daily norm will be 300 micrograms of the vitamin. And already at the end of treatment for six months, one injection is made every two weeks.

Vitamin B12 overdose

Before piercing vitamin B12 in ampoules, it would be useful to familiarize yourself with the consequences in case of an overdose: if the body is hypersensitive to this substance, then a large dose can cause an allergic reaction, which will manifest itself in the form of urticaria (rash on the body and mucous membranes), as well as pain in the heart, tachycardia, increased nervousness.

It should be remembered that an excess of cyanocobalamin is very difficult to remove from the body later.

Vitamin B12 in hair care

Cyanocobalamin is an excellent assistant in hair care. At home, vitamin can be added to shampoo, thereby making it fortified. It is also added to hair masks. For example, an excellent mask against hair loss is to mix one teaspoon of honey and lemon juice and add one ampoule of vitamin B6 and B12 to the mixture. Apply the mixture to clean hair, hold for 10 minutes, then rinse. Repeat the procedure five times a week.

But, as you know, external application is always inferior to internal in terms of results. What if vitamin B12 cannot be used in the form of injections due to the individual characteristics of the body, but at the same time you want to have beautiful hair? In such cases, it is best to include foods containing cyanocobalamin in your diet in sufficient quantities.

What foods contain vitamin B12

Most of the vitamin B12 in the liver is beef or veal, but chicken and pork liver also contain it in large quantities. It is also found in marine products such as crabs and oysters, fish, egg yolks, meat, hard cheese, dairy and sour-milk products.

Now fortified mixtures are offered in large quantities, for example, oatmeal, muesli in the form of breakfast cereals. In fact, it will hardly be possible to find the indicated amount of vitamins there, because long-term storage helps to reduce it, and the preservatives contained in such products are harmful.

There’s another caveat: Vitamin B12 is heat stable, which means it doesn’t get destroyed by cooking. But at the same time, direct sunlight has a detrimental effect on it.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin, cyanocobalamin) - physiological role, signs of deficiency, content in food. Instructions for the use of vitamin B12

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The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

Vitamin B 12 is a compound that has a very important ability to regulate hematopoiesis, ensuring the formation of normal-shaped erythrocytes with full functions. That is why vitamin B 12 is often referred to as anti-anemic factor .

Name and forms of vitamin B 12

Vitamin B 12 is the common name for two chemical variants of the cobalamin molecule that have vitamin activity. These variants of the molecule are called vitamers and are, in fact, varieties of the same substance, differing from each other in spatial orientation. Vitamin B 12 consists of two vitamers - cyanocobalamin And hydroxycobalamin. The names of both vitamers are the names of vitamin B 12 . However, at present, the name cyanocobalamin is usually used to designate vitamin B 12, since it is in this form that most of this substance enters the human body.

In addition, there are two more active forms of vitamin B12 ( methylcobalamin And deoxyadenosylcobalamin ), which are formed from cyanocobalamin and hydroxycobalamin in the human body. It is in active forms that vitamin B 12 performs its physiological functions. The names of the active forms are practically not used to refer to vitamin B 12 .

What is vitamin B 12 for - physiological role

Vitamin B 12 in the human body has the following physiological effects:
1. Provides the formation of normal-shaped erythrocytes with full functions.
2. Prevents the destruction of red blood cells.
3. Provides coverage of nerve fibers with a myelin sheath, necessary for the transmission of impulses and protection of the structure from the negative effects of external factors.
4. Prevents fatty degeneration of the liver, kidneys, spleen, heart and other organs.

The listed physiological effects are provided at the molecular level, at which vitamin B 12 activates and maintains certain biochemical transformations. At first glance, it is difficult to imagine, but in fact, every biochemical transformation in the body that occurs at the molecular level has its own "physiological" reflection in the form of an effect at the level of organs and tissues. Consider how vitamin B 12 provides its physiological effects at the molecular level.

Active forms of vitamin B 12 ensure the normal functioning of enzymes from the reductase class, which, in turn, convert folic acid to tetrahydrofolic acid. And tetrahydrofolic acid activates the process of cell division and, therefore, ensures the normal process of regeneration of organs and tissues, keeping them young and fully functioning. The activation of cell division is especially important for rapidly renewing tissues, such as blood cells, mucous membranes, epidermis, etc. It is thanks to the influence of vitamin B 12 that these tissues are maintained in a normal state.

In addition, the ability of cobalamin to activate cell division is able to prevent megaloblastic anemia. The fact is that with a deficiency of vitamin B 12, erythrocyte precursor cells grow, but do not divide, as a result of which giant erythrocytes (megaloblasts) are formed in a small amount. Such red blood cells contain little hemoglobin and cannot penetrate into small vessels due to their size, resulting in megaloblastic anemia. Vitamin B 12 stimulates the timely division of progenitor cells, resulting in the formation of a large number of normal red blood cells containing hemoglobin in sufficient concentration.

The formation of a myelin sheath on nerve fibers is impossible without a sufficient amount of vitamin B 12, since its active form ensures the conversion of methylmalonic acid into succinic acid, which is an essential structural component of myelin. If vitamin B 12 is not enough, then succinic acid is not formed in the required amount, as a result of which the nerve fiber remains demyelinated. The lack of myelin leads to a violation of sensitivity, poor conduction of impulses from the brain to the muscles and vice versa, resulting in numbness of the limbs, tingling, a feeling of "goosebumps" and other symptoms of nerve fiber degeneration.

Prevention of fatty degeneration of various organs is ensured by the ability of vitamin B 12 to activate the conversion of homocysteine ​​to methionine. Methionine, in turn, is necessary for the process of removing excess fat by the liver.

Absorption and excretion of vitamin B 12

Vitamin B 12 is normally absorbed into the blood from the small intestine. However, absorption of this vitamin is possible only in the presence of a small protein compound called Castle intrinsic factor and is produced by the cells of the stomach. If the internal factor of Castle is absent, then vitamin B 12 supplied with food or in tablet form will not be able to be absorbed into the bloodstream and a person will develop its deficiency. Since the Castle factor is produced by the cells of the stomach, with its various pathologies, the absorption of vitamin B 12 can be impaired. However, recent studies have shown that in high doses (more than 200 micrograms per day), vitamin B 12 can be absorbed into the blood without being associated with the Castle factor. But such dosages of the vitamin can only be provided by regularly taking cyanocobalamin tablets.

In general, the absorption of cobalamin into the blood from food is carried out in the following successive stages:
1. Formation of the Castle factor + cobalamin complex;
2. The entry of the complex into the small intestine and its passage through the wall into the portal vein of the liver;
3. The disintegration of the complex and the release of vitamin B 12;
4. Transfer of free vitamin B 12 to all organs.

In the cells of the organs, vitamin B 12 is converted into active forms - methylcobalamin and deoxyadenosylcobalamin, in which it exerts its physiological effects. After performing the functions, the active forms of vitamin B 12 are again transferred to the blood and delivered to the liver and kidneys, from where they are excreted with urine and feces.

In the liver, vitamin B 12 can accumulate, creating a depot, which is enough for a person for about 3 to 4 years.

Vitamin B 12 deficiency - symptoms

With a lack of vitamin B 12 in the body, a person develops the following diseases or clinical symptoms:

• Megaloblastic anemia;
• Increased fatigue;
• Funicular myelosis (degeneration of sections of the spinal cord);
• Paresthesia (feeling of running "goosebumps", tingling on the skin, etc.);
• Paralysisaccompanied by dysfunction of the pelvic organs;
• Dry tongue, colored bright red, on the surface of which tingling and burning can be felt;
• Decreased or complete lack of appetite;
• Unpleasant body odor;
• Achilia (zero acidity of gastric juice);
• Erosions and ulcers on the mucous membranes of various organs (mouth, throat, nose, bronchi, intestines, vagina, etc.);
• Heaviness when walking;
• yellowing of the skin;
• Shortness of breath and erratic heart rate during exercise;
• Focal hair loss;
• Ulceration of the corners of the mouth;
• Glossitis (inflammation of the tongue);
• Seborrheic dermatitis in certain areas of the skin of the body and face, especially near the nose or mouth;
• Inflammation and itching of the skin in the genital area in men and women;
• redness, itching, burning, and sensitivity of the eyes to light;
• Blurred vision;
• Formation of a cataract;
• Personal degradation.

The listed symptoms of vitamin B 12 deficiency can have varying degrees of severity and manifest themselves in different combinations. Symptoms are more pronounced, the more severe the deficiency of vitamin B12. For example, with a deficiency of 15% of vitamin B 12 in the body, the symptoms will be moderately expressed, the person as a whole will retain his ability to work and continue to lead his usual lifestyle, explaining his condition as malaise. And with a deficiency of 30% of vitamin B 12, the symptoms will be pronounced sharply, the general condition will worsen significantly, and the person will not be able to lead a normal life, being forced to consult a doctor to find the reasons for his poor health.

Vitamin B 12 deficiency: causes, symptoms, consequences - video

Vitamin B 12 - what foods contain

Vitamin B 12 is the only compound with vitamin activity that is not synthesized by plants and animals. This vitamin is produced only by microorganisms and must be supplied to the human body from the outside as part of food. A small amount of vitamin B 12, which is synthesized in the large intestine by its own microflora, is not absorbed, because it cannot rise to the overlying sections of the intestine, where this compound is absorbed into the bloodstream.
The main sources of vitamin B 12 are animal products, fish and seafood, such as:

• Beef liver (60 mcg of vitamin B 12 per 100 g of product);
• Pork liver (30 mcg per 100 g);
• Beef kidneys (25 mcg);
• Octopus (20 mcg);
• Chicken liver (16 mcg);
• Mackerel (12 mcg);
• Mussels (12 mcg);
• Sardine (11 mcg);
• Atlantic herring (10 mcg);
• Keta (4.1 mcg);
• Beef (3 mcg);
• Notothenia (2.8 mcg);
• Sea bass (2.4 mcg);
• Lamb (2 - 3 mcg);
• Egg (1.95 mcg);
• Turkey fillet (1.6 mcg);
• Cod (1.6 mcg);
• Carp (1.5 mcg);
• Curd (1.32 mcg);
• Shrimp (1.1 mcg);
• Cheeses (1.05 - 2.2 mcg);
• Broiler chickens (0.2 - 0.7 mcg);
• Milk and sour cream (0.4 mcg);
• Yogurt (0.4 - 0.7 mcg).

That is, a large amount of vitamin B 12 is found in the liver of farm animals and birds, in seafood, fish and egg yolk. The average amount of cyanocobalamin is found in meat, cheese and dairy products. Thus, it is obvious that vitamin B 12 is found in very small amounts in plant foods, so people who practice strict vegetarianism should take vitamins to prevent hypovitaminosis.

Foods rich in vitamin B 12 - video

Vitamin B 12 - the rate of consumption by people of different ages

In different age periods, the need for vitamin B 12 varies, which is associated with the characteristics of metabolism and the rhythm of life. At the same time, the need for cobalamin does not depend on the gender of the person. Therefore, for different age categories, regardless of gender, different norms of daily intake of vitamin B 12 are recommended, which ensure the normal course of vital processes in all cells of the body. The consumption rates of vitamin B 12 for people of different ages are shown in the table.

These norms are called adequate intake levels, which provide full coverage of the body's needs for vitamin B 12 compounds. However, these adequate levels of consumption are valid only for a healthy person living a measured and calm life. With physical exertion, stress, emotional stress, smoking or drinking alcohol, the need for vitamin B 12 increases by 10 - 25%, which should be taken into account when planning your own diet.

The minimum safe intake of vitamin B 12 in a diet is 1 mcg per day. The maximum amount of vitamin B 12 that can be consumed without any harm to health is 9 mcg per day.

Vitamin B 12 in the blood - the norm

The content of vitamin B 12 in the blood is determined by colorimetric methods. In this case, blood is donated in the same way as for a usual biochemical analysis. The normal content of vitamin B 12 in the blood varies in people of different ages, but does not depend on gender. At present, the following norms for the content of vitamin B 12 in the blood in different age periods have been adopted in the CIS countries:

• Newborns from 0 to a year - 118 - 959 pmol / l;
• Children over one year old and adults under 60 years old - 148 - 616 pmol / l;
• Adults over 60 years old - 81 - 568 pmol / l.

In order to obtain the correct results of the study, which can be compared with the indicated normal indicators, it is necessary to cancel the drugs that affect the content of cyanocobalamin in the blood before taking the analysis, and also not to drink alcohol, fatty and fried foods. The result of the analysis may be underestimated if, in the days before blood donation, the person used the following drugs or underwent procedures:

• Alcohol;
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics (for example, chloramphenicol, etc.);
• Aminosalicylic acid;
• Colchicine;
• Oral contraceptives;
• pentamidine;
• Pyrimethamine;
• Anticonvulsants (for example, phenobarbital, phenytoin, etc.);
• Triamterene;
• Phenformin;
• Cholestyramine;
• Cimetidine;
• Irradiation of the small intestine with cobalt.

What are the B 12 vitamins for medical use

Currently, the following chemical modifications of vitamin B 12 are used as active substances in preparations for medical use:

• cyanocobalamin;
• Hydroxocobalamin;
• Cobamamide.

All three substances have vitamin activity, but differ in their chemical and therapeutic effects. So, hydroxocobalamin is administered only intramuscularly or subcutaneously, cyanocobalamin - intramuscularly, subcutaneously, intravenously or intralumbally (in the lower back), and cobamamide - intravenously and intramuscularly. Cobamamide and cyanocobalamin can also be taken orally in tablet form.

Cyanocobalamin preparations have the weakest and slowest therapeutic effect. Hydroxocobalamin begins to have a therapeutic effect faster than cyanocobalamin, it remains in the blood longer and is more slowly excreted by the kidneys from the body. Thus, the duration of action of hydroxocobalamin also exceeds that of cyanocobalamin, so it can be administered less frequently, reducing the number of injections required for a full course of treatment.

Cobamamide has an almost instantaneous therapeutic effect, beginning to exert its physiological effects immediately after administration. In terms of the speed of development of the effect, cobamamide is the best option for vitamin B 12. Therefore, if you need to get a quick effect, for example, in severe and urgent conditions, it is necessary to use preparations containing vitamin B 12 in the form of cobamamide. In terms of other properties, cobamamide is comparable to hydroxocobalamin.

Vitamin B 12 with cobamamide and cyanocobalamin is available as a lyophilized powder, ready-to-use solution and tablets. And vitamin B 12 in the form of hydroxocobalamin is available only in the form of a sterile solution ready for use.

Vitamin B 12 in ampoules - characteristics and names of drugs

Vitamin B 12 is produced in ampoules in two pharmaceutical forms:
1. Lyophilized powder for solution for injection;
2. Ready-to-use sterile solution for injection.

The lyophilisate is preferable to the ready-made solution, since in this form, during long-term storage, the properties of vitamin B 12 are better preserved.

In addition to dosage forms, vitamin B 12 in ampoules is available in three chemical varieties (cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin and cobamamide) under the following commercial names:

• Cobamamide lyophilizate (cobamamide) - ampoules containing 0.1 mg, 0.5 mg and 1 mg of the active substance;
• Oxycobalamin solution (hydroxocobalamin) - ampoules containing the active substance in dosages of 50 μg / ml, 0.1 mg / ml and 1 mg / ml;
• Cyanocobalamin solution and lyophilisate (cyanocobalamin) - ampoules containing 30 µg/ml, 50 µg/ml, 100 µg/ml, 200 µg/ml and 500 µg/ml of the active substance;
• Cyanocobalamin bufus (cyanocobalamin) solution - ampoules containing 500 μg / ml of the active substance;
• Cyanocobalamin-Vial (cyanocobalamin) solution - ampoules containing 200 μg / ml and 500 μg / ml of the active substance.

Vitamin B 12 tablets - characteristics and names of drugs

In the dosage form of tablets, vitamin B 12 is available only under two commercial names - Cobamamide and Cyanocobalamin. Moreover, both drugs contain as an active substance the same forms of vitamin B 12, which are reflected in their names.

Cobamamide tablets are available in three dosages - 0.1 mg, 0.5 mg and 1 mg. And Cyanocobalamin tablets contain 30 mcg, 50 mcg and 100 mcg of the active substance. Vitamin B 12 in tablet form is well absorbed and tolerated by humans, therefore it can be used in long courses instead of injections to reduce the traumatic impact of injections.

Many older people remember that vitamin B 12 was produced only in ampoules and was administered exclusively by injection, and therefore they are skeptical of the news about the availability of cyanocobalamin tablets that can be safely taken orally, like many other vitamins. However, at present, vitamin B 12 tablets are a reality, and their effectiveness and effect are not inferior to injections, which, according to some people, are quite painful and unpleasant. Therefore, if possible, then painful injections of vitamin B 12 can be replaced by taking pills.

In addition to tablets, vitamin B 12 is also currently available in the form of rectal suppositories, which are inserted into the rectum. These rectal suppositories are called Cycomin and are an excellent alternative to the injection of vitamin B 12, since the vitamin is very quickly absorbed from the rectum into the blood through the plexus of hemorrhoidal veins.

Complex preparations with vitamin B 12

In recent years, thanks to the achievements of organic synthesis, chemistry and pharmacology, it has been possible to create complex preparations that include several vitamins that were previously considered incompatible and could not be in the same solution or tablet. Vitamin B 12 is part of such complex preparations along with B 1, B 6 and folic acid, which often need to be used together. Complex preparations are very convenient to use, since they allow you to reduce the number of injections and pills taken.

Today, the following complex therapeutic preparations containing vitamin B 12 are available on the domestic pharmaceutical market:

• Angiovit (B 6, B 12 + folic acid);
• Binavit (B 6, B 1 and B 12 + lidocaine);
• Vitagamma (B 6, B 1 and B 12 + lidocaine);
• Vitaxon (B 6 , B 1 and B 12 + lidocaine);
• Combilipen (B 6 , B 1 and B 12 + lidocaine);
• Compligam B (B 6 , B 1 and B 12 + lidocaine);
• Medivitan (B 6 , B 12 and folic acid);
• Milgamma (B 6, B 1 and B 12);
• Multi-Tabs B-complex (B 1, B 2, B 3, B 5, B 6, B 12 + folic acid);
• Neurobion (B 6 , B 1 and B 12);
• Neuromultivit (B 6 , B 1 and B 12);
• Pentovit (B 1, B 3, B 6, B 12 + folic acid);
• Pitzian (B 6 and B 12);
• Trigamma (B 6, B 1 and B 12 + lidocaine);
• Ferro-Folgamma (B 12, folic acid and ferrous sulfate);
• Foliber (B 12 and folic acid.).

These vitamins belong to the therapeutic group, since they can be used to treat various diseases and deficient conditions. Since the drugs are therapeutic, the dosages of vitamins in them can be relatively high, that is, exceeding those recommended for the prevention of beriberi. But it is precisely because of such relatively high dosages that therapeutic vitamins can be used as part of the complex treatment of various diseases.

In addition to these therapeutic vitamins, the pharmaceutical market has a wide range of different complexes for the prevention of hypovitaminosis, such as, for example, Vitrum, Centrum, Supradin, Alphabet, etc. These complexes usually contain almost all vitamins and several minerals in the dosages recommended for the prevention of hypovitaminosis, which are relatively low, and therefore the funds cannot be used to treat various diseases. Typically, such complexes are called prophylactic and their main difference from therapeutic vitamins is the low dosage of the components, which is insufficient for therapeutic use. Vitamin B 12 is a part of almost any vitamin-mineral prophylactic complex in the dosage recommended for daily consumption. We do not give the names of these complexes, since the list will be too long.

Vitamin B 12 - indications for use

Various forms of vitamin B 12 (cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, cobamamide), in principle, are indicated for use in the treatment of the same diseases. However, there are slight differences in the indications for the use of different forms of vitamin B 12 due to the peculiarities of their metabolism, the rate of development of the therapeutic effect and the duration of action. Therefore, we first consider the indications for use common to all forms of vitamin B 12, and then we indicate the specific ones for cyanocobalamin and hydroxocobalamin.

Indications for the use of all forms of vitamin B 12

Indications for the use of all forms of vitamin B 12 are as follows:

• Chronic anemia (Addison-Birmer, iron deficiency, posthemorrhagic, aplastic, toxic, alimentary);
• Acute and chronic hepatitis;
• myelosis;
• Lateral amniotrophic sclerosis;
• diabetic neuropathy;
• Skin diseases (psoriasis, photodermatosis, herpetic dermatitis, neurodermatitis);
• Bone injuries;
• Polyneuritis;
• Radiculitis;
• Neuralgia;
• Causalgia.

Indications for the use of cyanocobalamin and cabamamide

Indications for the use of cyanocobalamin and cabamamide are as follows:

• Injuries and inflammatory processes in the peripheral nerves (wound, radiculoneuritis, phantom pain);
• encephalomyelitis;
• Slow fusion of bones;
• To accelerate the recovery of the body after surgical interventions on the musculoskeletal system;
• Diseases of the digestive tract, in which the absorption of vitamin B 12 is impaired (resection of part of the stomach or small intestine, Crohn's disease, celiac disease, sprue);
• Prevention of vitamin B 12 deficiency when taking biguanides, para-aminosalicylic acid, large amounts of vitamin C (more than 100 mg per day);
• Malignant tumors of the pancreas and intestines;
• Prolonged stress;
• Long-term infectious diseases;
• kidney disease;
• Strict diet or vegetarianism.

Indications for the use of hydroxocobalamin

Indications for the use of hydroxocobalamin are as follows:

• Cyanide poisoning (intentional or accidental);
• Dystrophy or lack of body weight in newborns, including premature ones;
• Recovery after infectious diseases;
• Sprue;
• Trigeminal neuralgia;
• Leber's disease (hereditary atrophy of the optic nerves);
• Alcoholic psychosis ("white tremens").

The given indications for use are not clearly and precisely delimited, rather they are advisory in nature. This means that the list of indications for the use of cyanocobalamin and hydroxocobalamin includes those conditions in which this dosage form is optimal, so it is best to use it. However, if this is not possible, then any available form of vitamin B 12 can be used. Conditions in which any form of vitamin can be used are included in the list of indications for the use of all types of B 12 . In this case, you can use any drug that is the most affordable or likes more than others for some subjective reasons.

Vitamin B 12 - instructions for use

How to inject vitamin B 12

First of all, you need to read the instructions that came with the drug and find out what active substance is contained in the purchased drug, since it depends on what types of injections you can do.

Hydroxocobalamin can be administered as intramuscular or subcutaneous injections, cobamamide - intravenously and intramuscularly, and cyanocobalamin - intramuscularly, subcutaneously, intravenously or intralumbarly (in the lower back). The best methods of injecting vitamin B 12 are subcutaneous and intravenous. Intramuscular administration is the most dangerous and least preferred option for the use of vitamin B 12, so it is recommended to avoid this type of injection. Intralumbar administration of the vitamin is only used to treat neuritis or sciatica.

Subcutaneous or intramuscular injections can be made independently, and intralumbar and intravenous administration of drugs should be done by a doctor or nurse in a medical institution or at home.

Intramuscular injection is best done in the upper lateral surface of the thigh, and not in the buttock. Subcutaneous injection is optimally performed in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe inner surface of the forearm, where the Mantoux test is usually placed. Immediately before an intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, the skin area must be wiped with cotton wool moistened with an antiseptic solution (alcohol, chlorhexidine, Belasept, etc.). For intramuscular injection, it is necessary to insert the needle perpendicular to the skin and slowly release the drug into the tissues. The needle should also be removed while holding it perpendicular to the skin. For subcutaneous injection, it is necessary to collect 1 cm of skin into a fold with your fingers and insert a needle under it parallel to the forearm bone, and then slowly inject the solution into the tissues. Remove the needle without straightening the skin fold.

Before injection, a solution is prepared and drawn into a syringe. To do this, either an ampoule with a ready-made solution of the required concentration is simply opened, or the required amount of sterile distilled water is poured into the vial with lyophilizate so that the contents dissolve. The resulting or ready-made solution of vitamin B 12 is drawn into the syringe with a needle. Then the syringe is turned over with the needle up and a light tap on the surface of the tube is made with a fingertip in the direction from the piston to the needle. This is necessary so that the air bubbles break away from the walls of the syringe and rise to the surface of the solution. Then, by lightly pressing the piston, it is necessary to release a few drops of the solution from the syringe so that all the air comes out with them. After that, the syringe is considered ready for injection. It can be set aside on a clean surface and prepare the area of ​​​​skin in which the injection will be placed.

Dosages and duration of vitamin B 12 use depend on the type of disease, the rate of recovery and the age of the person. The course of therapy can vary from 7 to 30 days, and the dosage is from 10 mcg to 500 mcg per day. The specific dosage should be clarified with a doctor or in the instructions for use of a particular drug.

How to take vitamin B 12 by mouth

Cobamamide and cyanocobalamin can also be taken orally in tablet form. Adults should take the tablets half an hour before meals with plenty of water. Tablets can be chewed. For children, tablets are dissolved in a 5% dextrose solution or boiled water and also given 30 minutes before meals. At the same time, to dissolve tablets containing 500 μg of the active substance, 5 ml of a 5% dextrose solution or 50 ml of boiled water are needed.

Vitamin B 12 in the form of tablets is recommended to be taken several times a day - from 2 to 6, depending on the frequency of meals. That is, if a person eats 3 times a day, then the daily dosage of vitamin B 12 is recommended to be divided into three doses, etc. The dosage and duration of the course of taking vitamin B 12 is determined by the rate of clinical improvement, as well as the condition for which the decision was made to use vitamin preparations. On average, the course of treatment can last from 7 to 30 days, and the dosage ranges from 250 mcg to 1000 mcg per day.

Vitamin B 12 Compatibility

The concept of compatibility applies only to intravenous, intramuscular or subcutaneous administration of vitamins, since undesirable chemical interactions can occur between them. When taken orally, all B vitamins are compatible with each other and can be taken at the same time.

So, when injected, vitamin B 12 is well compatible with vitamins B 6, C, U (U), H and folic acid. This means that cyanocobalamin can be administered simultaneously with compatible vitamins on the same day, but from different syringes. Despite compatibility, vitamin solutions should not be mixed in the same syringe, as this may lead to a weakening or complete loss of their therapeutic activity. Therefore, compatible vitamins are allowed to be administered at the same time, but from different syringes. If vitamins are administered intravenously, then this is done alternately, without removing the needle from the vein, with intervals between them of 5 to 10 minutes. If vitamins are administered intramuscularly, then each drug is drawn into a separate syringe and an injection is made in different places.

Vitamin B 12 is poorly compatible with vitamin B 1, so it is not recommended to administer them together. However, at present there are combined preparations containing both vitamins B 1 and B 12, which are administered simultaneously. In the form of such preparations, these vitamins can be administered simultaneously, since during the manufacturing process they are given special properties that make them compatible.

Vitamin B 12 is completely incompatible with copper, iron and manganese.

Vitamin B 12 for hair

Vitamin B 12 accelerates the rate of hair growth and makes them strong, elastic and shiny. With a lack of cobalamin, the hair begins to break off, slowly grow and fall out. Vitamin B 12 has the best effect on hair when it is ingested as part of food or in the form of vitamin preparations. External application of vitamin B 12 can only help in maintaining the good condition of already healthy hair. However, to treat and improve hair structure, vitamin B 12 must be taken orally in the form of tablets or injected.
What vitamins do women need and how to take them

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) - physiological role, deficiency symptoms, content in food. Instructions for use of vitamin B1

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) - physiological role, signs of deficiency, content in food. Instructions for use of vitamin B6

All vitamins are divided into water-soluble and fat-soluble. The B vitamins are water soluble and can accumulate in the human body.

Of all the B vitamins, vitamin B 12 (cyanocobalamin) deserves special attention. It is deposited on the surface of organs, and is also able to remain in products for a long time due to the endurance of high temperatures and light.

The effect of vitamin B 12 on the body

1. Vitamin B 12 plays a special role in ensuring the hematopoiesis of the human body. The lack of this vitamin can lead to anemia, that is, to anemia. In addition to the anti-anemic function, it is capable of normalizing low blood pressure and lowering blood cholesterol levels.
2. Vitamin B 12 is also involved in the process of creating DNA molecules. With the participation of other elements, vitamin B 12 leads to the synthesis of DNA and RNA in the nuclei, containing genetic information.
   Vitamin B 12 refers to the elements of male and female reproductive organs, that is, it can equalize the number of spermatozoa in seminal fluid.
3. Vitamin B 12 is able to fight insomnia and very actively helps to rebuild the body to changes in sleep patterns, as it is involved in the synthesis of melatonin.
4. Vitamin B 12 affects the emotional state of a person, preventing depression, age-related dementia, and activating mental activity. Accordingly, the lack of this vitamin leads to neurosis and sclerosis, as the layer that protects our nerve cells is destroyed.
5. Vitamin B 12 is involved in important metabolic processes throughout the human body.

As you can see, vitamin B 12 is very important for ensuring the normal functioning of the processes of the whole organism.

Daily requirement of the body for vitamin B 12

• Children under 1 year - 0.5 mcg;
• Children from 1 to 4 years old - 1 mcg;
• Children from 4 to 7 years old - 1-1.5 mcg;
• Children from 7 to 10 years old - 1.5-1.8 mcg;
• Children from 10 to 13 years old - 2 mcg;
• Children from 13 to 15 years old - 2.5 mcg;
• Adult - 3 mcg;
• Pregnant women - 3.5 mcg;
• Breastfeeding women - 4 mcg.

It is these doses of vitamin B 12 that are necessary for use for the full operation of all processes in which it is of great importance.

What foods contain vitamin B 12

Herbal products:

• Hop
• Soy and soy products
• Spinach
• Green salad
• sea ​​kale
• Yeast

The above types of products are not consumed in the diet every day and not in large quantities, but B 12 cannot be synthesized in the body, i.e. be produced independently, so you need to eat foods high in this vitamin:

• Beef and veal liver
• Egg yolk
• Skimmed milk powder
• Seafood - herring, salmon, crabs, oysters, sardines
• Dairy

More detailed data on products and their content of vitamin B 12 can be seen in the table below.

Vitamin B 12 deficiency can cause serious harm to the body, and especially to people who exclude animal products in their diet, i.e. vegetarians. Having given up meat, it is necessary to use at least fish products with a high content of this vitamin, as well as to make up for its deficiency with the help of nutritional supplements.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin or cyanocobalamin) is a vitamin that contains cobalt and cyano groups necessary for the body. The main benefit of this vitamin is hematopoietic function - helping in the development of red blood cells. The beneficial properties of cobalamin in the formation of nerve fibers are also invaluable. Vitamin B12 also has a significant effect on metabolism, the movement of lipids and carbohydrates in the body.

Vitamin B12 dissolves in water, almost does not break down during prolonged heat treatment and in contact with alkalis and acids. Cyanocobalamin is able to accumulate in the liver for further use. Small amounts of vitamin B12 are synthesized by the intestinal microflora. The daily requirement for cobalamin for an adult is 3 mcg. During pregnancy, lactation, and during the period, the amount of vitamin taken can be increased up to 4 times.

What is the benefit of vitamin B12?

The main purpose of vitamin B12 is the normalization of hematopoiesis. In addition, cobalamin has a beneficial effect on fat metabolism in the liver tissues, optimizes the state of the nervous system, metabolic processes in the body, lowers cholesterol levels and stimulates growth. Cyanocobalamin is involved in the synthesis of DNA molecules, amino acids, affects the processing of fats and carbohydrates.

Cobalamin stimulates cell division, the well-being of those tissues that are most susceptible to intensive division depends on its presence in the body: immune cells, blood and skin cells, as well as cells that make up the upper intestine. Vitamin B12 affects the myelin sheath (covering of nerves), and a lack of the vitamin causes permanent nerve damage.

Cyanocobalamin deficiency:

Cobalamin deficiency is accompanied by the following symptoms: