Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is a vitamin found in 7 medicines sold in India, such as Nurokind, Neurobion Forte, Pregabid ME 75. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
Also called: methylcobalamin, cyanocobalamin, mecobalamin, b12
What it is used for
Treats B12 deficiency, which can cause tiredness, anaemia and tingling in hands and feet.
How it works
Needed for nerves and red blood cells. Deficiency is common in vegetarians, older people and those on metformin or long-term acid reducers. Methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin both work.
How to take it
Tablets once a day, or injections for severe deficiency or poor absorption. Nerve symptoms can take months to improve.
Common side effects
- Usually none
- Acne or rash rarely with injections
Get medical help straight away if
Allergic reaction to an injection
Be careful
Generally safe.
Other medicines and interactions
Metformin, PPIs and H2 blockers lower B12 absorption over time.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding; vegetarian mothers often need it.
Brands of Vitamin B12 (1)
Combination medicines that contain Vitamin B12 (6)
Common questions
What is Vitamin B12 used for?
Treats B12 deficiency, which can cause tiredness, anaemia and tingling in hands and feet.
How does Vitamin B12 work?
Needed for nerves and red blood cells. Deficiency is common in vegetarians, older people and those on metformin or long-term acid reducers. Methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin both work.
How should I take Vitamin B12?
Tablets once a day, or injections for severe deficiency or poor absorption. Nerve symptoms can take months to improve.
What are the side effects of Vitamin B12?
Common: Usually none, acne or rash rarely with injections. Get help straight away for: Allergic reaction to an injection.
Does Vitamin B12 interact with other medicines?
Metformin, PPIs and H2 blockers lower B12 absorption over time.
Is Vitamin B12 safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding; vegetarian mothers often need it.
Does Vitamin B12 need a prescription in India?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Which brands contain Vitamin B12?
Autrin, Cobadex CZS, Dexorange, Neurobion Forte, Nurokind, Pregabid ME 75, Shelcal XT.
Sources and further reading
- Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin): NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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