Vitamin B12

Last Updated: July 31, 2023

Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is a water-soluble essential vitamin that is known to play roles in neurology.

Vitamin B12 is most often used for

What else is Vitamin B12 known as?
Note that Vitamin B12 is also known as:
  • Cyanocobalamin
  • cobalamin
  • methylcobalamin
  • 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin
  • adenosylcobalamin
  • cobamamide
  • dibencozide
  • hydroxocobalamin
Dosage information

2.4 mcgs per day is the RDA for adults, generally (more is needed in some circumstances such as pregnancy). 100 mcg seems top be sufficient to reduce homocysteine for those with deficiency. Supplementation of vitamin B12 tends to be around 1,000 mcg (1 mg) of supplemental vitamin B12 to persons who are at risk for B12 insufficient or deficiency, mostly older individuals and vegans, though this dose is best only used for short periods with monitoring of levels so as to avoid excessive dosing and the potential risks.

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