What Is Hydroxocobalamin?
Cobalamin is another name for vitamin B12, an essential nutrient necessary for proper metabolism and energy production. Hydroxocobalamin is a chemical compound with a similar structure to vitamin B12. Even though the human body doesn't produce hydroxocobalamin, bacteria in the digestive tract can convert it into a usable form. Commercial and pharmaceutical versions of hydroxocobalamin also use bacteria to create large volumes of the compound for therapeutic purposes.
Hydroxocobalamin, partially identifiable by its red color, plays an integral part in DNA synthesis and supports cell replication. The compound also has an important role in the conversion of harmful homocysteine into beneficial methionine, an essential amino acid. It helps with energy production and is necessary for normal brain function and nervous system function.
A Remedy for B12 Deficiency
Hydroxocobalamin is commonly used to address vitamin B12 deficiency. When the body's reserve of vitamin B12 is low, injections of hydroxocobalamin are often used to restore it. B-12 deficiency is linked to many negative health effects, including neurologic, gastroenterologic, psychiatric, and blood disorders. There's no question it's one of the most important nutrients our bodies require. In one case, an individual suffering from seizures and psychotic symptoms achieved a complete recovery after B12 intervention.[1]
B-12 Deficiency: Causes
Whether you're avoiding animal products or suffering from digestive or absorption issues, you may develop a B12 deficiency. Even meat eaters who constantly consume this essential nutrient may become deficient under certain circumstances. The most common causes of a vitamin B12 deficiency include:
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is when the body doesn't absorb B12 and doesn't produce enough red blood cells. People with this condition must regularly receive B12 supplementation. Hydroxocobalamin injection has been traditionally used against pernicious anemia based on research indicating the body more readily retains it.[2] New research has suggested oral ingestion of hydroxocobalamin (or cyanocobalamin) as an alternative option for B12 supplementation.[3]
Strict Vegetarian & Vegan Diets
Individuals who adhere to a strict vegetarian or vegan diet may not receive enough vitamin B12. The vitamin is mostly present in animal-based foods such as meat, eggs, fish, and milk.[4] This places many health-conscious vegetarians and vegans at risk, prompting supplementation as the main avenue through which the nutrient can and should be obtained. Pregnant women who are vegetarians or vegans will also need to supplement, as a deficiency can greatly impact the fetus.[5]
Digestive Malabsorption
If the stomach or small intestine experience functional or structural damage, the body may have trouble absorbing enough vitamin B12 (and other nutrients). People who have celiac disease also have difficulty digesting gluten and absorbing nutrients. Some medical conditions can also prevent the stomach or small intestine from properly secreting intrinsic factor, the intestinal protein necessary for B12 absorption.
Harmful Organisms
Unfriendly organisms in the intestines can reduce the amount of B12 available for absorption. For example, tapeworms can consume large amounts of vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency.[6] A condition like this may lead to gastric atrophy — chronic irritation of the stomach lining. This can result in a loss of gastric cells that produce essential digestive substances necessary for the proper utilization of B12.
Benefits of Hydroxocobalamin
In addition to remedying B12 deficiency, hydroxocobalamin can provide additional benefits to the brain and body.
Remedy for Cyanide Poisoning
In 2006, hydroxocobalamin received approval for use as a treatment for cyanide poisoning. Hydroxocobalamin binds with cyanide molecules to form cyanocobalamin, a B12 vitamer. As a cyanide antidote, hydroxocobalamin has been deemed safe and highly effective.[7]
A Migraine Remedy
Hydroxocobalamin has been identified as a scavenger of nitric oxide, an essential muscle regulator that also acts as a free radical. Too much nitric oxide can actually cause swelling and discomfort, especially in the brain. One study found hydroxocobalamin to be effective for reducing the frequency and duration of migraines.[8]
Points to Remember
The B vitamins are necessary for nerve function, energy production, and metabolic processes inside the body. Do not risk deficiencies of these essential nutrients!
If you are experiencing symptoms related to vitamin B12 deficiency, it is pertinent that you receive testing to make sure your levels are in check. If not, supplementation may be necessary until the proper amount of B12 is established.
Global Healing’s Vitamin B12 is a vegan formula that contains methylcobalamin, adenosylcobalamin, and hydroxocobalamin for long-lasting, sustained support. Our Vitamin B12 contains Energized Trace Minerals™ that gives it amplified bioavailability!
Watch an In-Depth Video on Everything You Need to Know About Vitamin B12
Length: 51 minutes
References (8)
- Vilibi M, et al. Cobalamin deficiency manifested with seizures, mood oscillations, psychotic features and reversible dementia in the absence of typical neurologic and hematologic signs and symptoms: a case report. Coll Antropol. 2013 Mar;37(1):317-9.
- Hall CA, et al. The availability of therapeutic hydroxocobalamin to cells. Blood. 1984 Feb;63(2):335-41.
- Andrès E, et al. Efficacy of oral cobalamin (vitamin B12) therapy. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2010 Feb;11(2):249-56. doi: 10.1517/14656560903456053.
- Watanabe F, et al. Biologically Active Vitamin B12 Compounds in Foods for Preventing Deficiency among Vegetarians and Elderly Subjects. J Agric Food Chem. 2013 Jul 17;61(28):6769-75. doi: 10.1021/jf401545z. Epub 2013 Jul 2.
- Simpson JL, et al. Micronutrients and women of reproductive potential: required dietary intake and consequences of dietary deficiency or excess. Part I--Folate, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2010 Dec;23(12):1323-43. doi: 10.3109/14767051003678234. Epub 2010 Apr 7.
- Vuylsteke P, et al. Case of megaloblastic anemia caused by intestinal taeniasis. Ann Hematol. 2004 Jul;83(7):487-8. Epub 2004 Jan 17.
- Shepherd G, Velez LI. Role of hydroxocobalamin in acute cyanide poisoning. Ann Pharmacother. 2008 May;42(5):661-9. doi: 10.1345/aph.1K559. Epub 2008 Apr 8.
- van der Kuy PH, et al. Hydroxocobalamin, a nitric oxide scavenger, in the prophylaxis of migraine: an open, pilot study. Cephalalgia. 2002 Sep;22(7):513-9.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
