1. What is the role of methylcobalamin?
As discussed earlier, methylcobalamin is the naturally occurring form of vitamin B12 and is used to treat its deficiency. It acts as a pain killer in diabetic patients and patients with neuropathies. Methylcobalamin also helps in producing red blood cells, improving nerve condition, and promoting regeneration of the damaged nerves.
2. Is vitamin B12 methylcobalamin?
Methylcobalamin is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B12 (unlike cyanocobalamin). Therefore, it is the closest form of vitamin B12 there is in nature. You can consume it through fish, meat, eggs, and milk. Since it is derived naturally from food sources and supplements, it can be considered identical to vitamin B12.
3. How to take methylcobalamin?
You should take methylcobalamin exactly as per your doctor's instructions. You can also consult with our experts about the same. Normally, it is either administered orally or injected into the muscle. Store it at room temperature or 20–25°C. Follow the storage and consumption instructions mentioned in the label if you're consuming it orally at home.
4. Is methylcobalamin safe during pregnancy?
Low vitamin B12 levels may lead to anemia in pregnant women and the low birth weight of the baby. Hence, pregnant women who are inclined to have a vitamin B12 deficiency are often prescribed methylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin supplements may improve the nutritional status of pregnant women. No reports linking high doses of vitamin B12 with maternal or fetal complications have been found.
5. How much methylcobalamin can be taken every day?
Like any other supplementary vitamin, it is always advisable to seek the opinion of your doctor (or our medical experts), before taking methylcobalamin. Usually, you will be recommended a dose of 500 mcg thrice or a dose of 1500 mcg once every day, but it may differ in some cases.
6. Can I take methylcobalamin daily?
Methylcobalamin is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B12. It is a kind of vitamin supplement. For best bioavailability and absorption of methylcobalamin, a daily dose is recommended to make it more beneficial or effective. However, it is advised that you consult a physician before taking up this medication.
7. What is the best time to take methylcobalamin?
An experienced physician will always advise you to consume methylcobalamin on an empty stomach. It is a well-known medical fact that water-soluble vitamins are better absorbed on an empty stomach. So, the usual time of taking methylcobalamin will be in the morning as the first dose, half an hour before lunch, and 2 hours post a meal.
8. Does methylcobalamin consumption cause weight gain?
Many health-conscious and weight-conscious people believe that it is always better to know the weight-related side effects of a drug. As far as consuming methylcobalamin is concerned, despite many processes and trials involving vitamin B12, there is little evidence to suggest that it has any effect leading to weight gain.
9. How long does methylcobalamin stay in your system?
The liver does not store most other vitamins or their related forms in substantial amounts. However, vitamin B12 is different. It is stored in the liver in an extensive amount until the body needs it. This storage of vitamin B12 takes about three to five years to become completely exhausted.
10. Is methylcobalamin safe?
Like any other vitamin supplement, methylcobalamin must also be consumed in the appropriate quantity. The Natural Medicines Database considers methylcobalamin to be safe when taken in the right dosage. Extremely high vitamin B12 levels have been linked to the development of lung and prostate cancer. It can also be a symptom of adult-onset Still's disease, a rare auto-inflammatory disease.
We have tried to provide you with insights about when, how, and why you should consume or take methylcobalamin. In case you have any doubts regarding its uses and benefits or side effects, get in touch with our team at Yashoda Hospitals.
