Whenever we come across any statement on social media that may impact health, we ensure to always get it fact-checked by experts. We did so again, this time when we read that vitamin B12 supplements containing cyanocobalamin are as toxic as cyanide. According to physician Dr Dennis Walker, if your B12 supplement ingredient says “cyanocobalamin”, throw it in the trash. “The ‘cyano’ portion of this is most disturbing. This breaks down into cyanide, which is deadly and toxic at high levels. Instead of cyanocobalamin look for vitamin B12 in the form of methylcobalamin, or hydroxycobalamin. No cyanide, and absorbs just as well,” said Dr Walker.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include anaemia, feeling tired or weak, trouble while walking, weight loss, irritability, poor appetite, and diarrhea. Notably, vitamin B12 supplements are advised when one is found to have a deficiency. “It is believed that vitamin B12 supplement plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and nervous system function,” said Dr Aniket Mule, consultant internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals.
Cyanide is a toxic, carbon-nitrogen chemical compound that is lethal and exists in many forms, including gas, liquid, or solid.
Dr Vichar Nigam, consultant, internal medicine, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, contended that cyanocobalamin is “safe” for long-term use. “There are two commonly used vitamin B12 supplements: cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin. Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form that is absorbed better than methylcobalamin, though it doesn’t stay in the body as long. This makes it helpful for conditions where vitamin B12 absorption is low, like pernicious anaemia,” said Dr Nigam. Source: The Indian Express