Nascobal (nasal)
Generic name:cyanocobalamin (nasal) [ sye-AN-oh-koe-BAL-a-min ]
Drug class:Vitamins
What is Nascobal nasal?
Nascobal (for use in the nose) is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency in people with pernicious anemia and other conditions.
Nascobal is usually given after treatment with an injection form of Nascobal.
Nascobal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to cobalt, or if you have Leber's disease.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Nascobal if you are allergic to Nascobal or cobalt, or if you have Leber's disease (an inherited form of vision loss). This medicine 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.
Nascobal is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I use Nascobal nasal?
Nascobal 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 Nascobal 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.