Nascobal (Nasal)
Cyanocobalamin nasal (for use in the nose) is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency in people with pernicious anemia and other conditions.
Cyanocobalamin nasal is usually given after treatment with an injection form of this medicine.
Cyanocobalamin nasal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
uses
What is Nascobal (Nasal) used for?
- B12 Nutritional Deficiency
- Pernicious Anemia
- Schilling Test
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Nascobal (Nasal)?
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to cyanocobalamin or cobalt, or if you have Leber's disease (an inherited form of vision loss). Cyanocobalamin can lead to optic nerve damage (and possibly blindness) in people with Leber's disease.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- eye problems or Leber's disease (in you or a family member); or
- an iron or folic acid deficiency.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing a baby.
Cyanocobalamin nasal is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Nascobal (Nasal)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have :
- easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under your skin; or
- low potassium level--leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling.
Common side effects may include:
- runny nose;
- cold or flu symptoms such as stuffy nose, sore throat, sinus pain;
- headache;
- tingling in your hands or feet;
- weakness;
- nausea; or
- swelling in your tongue.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Nascobal (Nasal) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing a baby.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Nascobal (Nasal)?
Do not drink hot liquid or eat hot food within 1 hour before or 1 hour after you use cyanocobalamin nasal.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Nascobal (Nasal)?
Use Nascobal (Nasal) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Cyanocobalamin nasal is usually given once per week. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
You may need blood tests every 3 to 6 months, and your doctor may change your dose based on the results.
Your dose needs may change if you become pregnant, if you breast-feed, or if you eat a vegetarian diet. Tell your doctor about any changes in your diet or medical condition.
Tell your doctor if you have sinus congestion. This medicine may not work as well if you have a stuffy nose.
For pernicious anemia, you may have to use cyanocobalamin for the rest of your life. Do not stop using the medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia or irreversible nerve damage.
Pernicious anemia is also treated with folic acid to help maintain red blood cells. Folic acid alone will not treat Vitamin B12 deficiency or prevent possible damage to the spinal cord. Use all medications as directed.
Store in an upright position at room temperature. Protect from light and do not freeze.
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.