Cyanocobalamin

Figure 1. The chemical structure of Cyanocobalamin.

Cyanocobalamin is a manufactured form (or man-made form) of Vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin is primarily manufactured to treat Vitamin B12 deficiency. However, it is also administered to treat other diseases such pernicious anaemia, thyrotoxicosis, haemorrhage, malignancy, liver disease and kidney disease. Cyanocobalamin can be administered orally, by injection, or by nasal spray.

Cyanocobalamin is converted into bioactive forms of Vitamin B12 inside the human body. The two bioactive forms of Vitamin B12 are Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalamin. Of particular importance, Adenosylcobalamin is used in mitochondria for the production of Coenzyme A which subsequently is used in the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells.

Among the various Vitamin B12 forms, Cyanocobalamin is one of the most widely manufactured as it is the most air-stable among them, and the easiest to crystallise and purify after it is produced via its main production method: bacterial fermentation.

Generally, Cyanocobalamin is well tolerated. Possible side effects may include allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, redness of the face, swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles or lower legs, extreme thirst, and diarrhoea. Less-serious side effects may include headache, dizziness, leg pain, itching, and rashes.

For nutritional values, refer to the Codex entry for Vitamin B12.