Hydroxocobalamin Hydrochloride
Hydroxocobalamin Hydrochloride is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 used primarily to treat vitamin B12 deficiency and as an emergency antidote for cyanide poisoning. It works by providing the body with an essential cofactor needed for red blood cell production, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. This medication is typically administered via injection and is considered a cornerstone treatment for conditions such as pernicious anemia.
Hydroxocobalamin is vitamin B12 in injectable form used for B12 deficiency and as a cyanide antidote.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1947247
- Generic
- Hydroxocobalamin Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency states including pernicious anemia, megaloblastic anemia, and malabsorption syndromes. Also FDA-approved as an emergency antidote for acute cyanide poisoning where rapid binding of cyanide is required.
As a form of vitamin B12 (cobalamin), hydroxocobalamin serves as a cofactor for methionine synthase and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase enzymes essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function. In cyanide toxicity, it binds to cyanide forming cyanocobalamin which is safely excreted by the kidneys.
Administered by intramuscular or intravenous injection. May cause transient skin discoloration, urticaria, or mild gastrointestinal symptoms. For cyanide poisoning, it may interfere with certain laboratory tests including serum vitamin B12 measurements. Requires proper diagnosis of underlying B12 deficiency before long-term use. Medical supervision essential for dosing and monitoring.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy