Medicosnext
In recent updates, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has highlighted an important safety concern for healthcare professionals: cobalt sensitivity reactions in patients receiving vitamin B12 treatments. This alert emphasizes the need for vigilance when administering vitamin B12, particularly in its hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin forms.
Vitamin B12, essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function, is available in both oral and injectable forms. Both hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin contain cobalt, a component that can occasionally trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. These reactions often manifest as chronic or subacute allergic contact dermatitis, a condition characterized by skin rashes and irritation.
While such reactions are relatively rare, the MHRA has noted their occurrence through Yellow Card reports, which suggest possible allergic responses to cobalt from vitamin B12 administration. The literature supports these findings, with documented cases of cobalt sensitivity linked to vitamin B12 treatment.
To address this issue, the MHRA is urging healthcare professionals to be aware of this risk and consider cobalt sensitivity when assessing patients for vitamin B12 therapy. By improving awareness, the aim is to enhance patient safety and ensure more informed treatment decisions.
For patients on vitamin B12 therapy, especially those experiencing unusual skin reactions, it’s crucial to consult healthcare providers. They can offer guidance and alternative treatments to manage vitamin B12 deficiency while mitigating the risk of cobalt sensitivity.
Reference: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240096233
