Sign inBefore taking hydroxocobalamin
Before taking hydroxocobalamin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
How your hydroxocobalamin is given
- Your doctor or nurse will usually give you the treatment because it is only available as an injection. It will be given as an [i]intramuscular injection[/i which means that it will be injected into a muscle.
- If you need treatment for a long time you may be taught how to give it yourself.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet that comes with this injection.
- Keep your regular doctor's appointments so that you receive your injections on time and your progress can be monitored. You may need to have occasional blood tests to check on your progress.
Can hydroxocobalamin cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Feeling sick | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist or doctor to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, let your doctor know |
| Dizziness | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other tasks which could be dangerous if you are affected |
| Fever, rash, itching, or pain where you were injected | Let your doctor or nurse know about these |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
How to store hydroxocobalamin
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Hydroxocobalamin Injection BP 1 mg/mL, Goldshield plc, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated September 2009, accessed June 2010.
- British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)