Methylcobalamin (Mecobalamin)
Methylcobalamin, also called mecobalamin, is a biologically active form of vitamin B12 involved in cellular methyl transfer. Veterinary use includes selected cobalamin-replacement plans and empirical adjunctive treatment of neuropathy. Nutrient replacement and proposed neuroprotective applications have different evidence bases, with clinical neuropathy data in veterinary patients limited.
Group
Coenzyme form of vitamin B12
Mechanism of Action
Methylcobalamin acts as the cobalamin cofactor for methionine synthase, supporting conversion of homocysteine to methionine and regeneration of usable folate. Methionine supplies precursors for S-adenosylmethionine-dependent methylation, while folate recycling supports nucleotide synthesis. These pathways contribute to normal hematopoiesis and nervous-system metabolism. Proposed effects on nerve function extend beyond simple correction of deficiency and remain incompletely characterized.
Indications
- Cobalamin replacement in selected dogs or cats with documented vitamin B12 deficiency using a supported methylcobalamin protocol.
- Empirical adjunctive treatment of selected peripheral neuropathies, including feline diabetic neuropathy, with limited veterinary clinical efficacy evidence.
Contraindications
- Cobalamin or formulation hypersensitivity.
Interactions
- Do not assume the pharmacokinetics, injection schedule or combination safety of another cobalamin formulation.
Adverse effects
- Injection reactions or hypersensitivity are possible.
Toxicity
Veterinary overdose information specific to methylcobalamin is limited; assess any accompanying ingredients and treat clinically significant reactions.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Methycobal injection 500 mcg/mL Nipro Pharma Corporation Human presentation; a verified strength is not a veterinary dosing regimen. | Injection | 500 mcg / mL | IM, IV |
Monitoring and Administration
Measure serum cobalamin and investigate the underlying intestinal, pancreatic or dietary problem when deficiency is suspected.
Cyanocobalamin dosing schedules are not established methylcobalamin-specific regimens. Serum methylmalonic acid may assist functional assessment when available.
Protect light-sensitive products as directed and distinguish human-labelled preparations from veterinary treatment regimens.
One methylcobalamin-only veterinary product page describes 2500 mcg/mL and 1 mL per 20 kg for dogs/cats, but omits route and repeat schedule. The amount corresponds to 125 mcg/kg; a parenteral route and interval are not invented from the word injection.