Hydroxocobalamin is used in the treatment and prevention of Vitamin B12 deficiency. For adults, the daily recommended intake of Vitamin B12 is 1.5 micrograms per day and this amount is present in most balanced diets. However, Vitamin B12 only occurs in animal products, not in vegetables, and therefore strict vegetarian or vegan diets that exclude dairy products may result in an inadequate amount, although a deficiency may not be apparent for many years.

Distribution:

Transcobalamin II appears to be involved in the rapid transport of the cobalamin to tissues. Hydroxocobalamin is extensively bound to specific plasma proteins (transcobalamin).

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Hydroxocobalamin or to any of the excipients.

Special warnings and precautions for use:

• It is advisable to confirm the diagnosis of Vitamin B12 deficiency before giving hydroxocobalamin; regular monitoring of the blood is recommended.
• Cardiac arrhythmias secondary to hypokalaemia during initial therapy have been reported. Plasma potassium should therefore be monitored during this period.