About The Drug Cyanocobalamin aka CaloMist Nasal Spray

ClusterMed

Find Cyanocobalamin side effects, uses, warnings, interactions and indications. Cyanocobalamin is also known as CaloMist Nasal Spray.

Cyanocobalamin

Cyanocobalamin Prescription Drug Bottle
About Cyanocobalamin aka CaloMist Nasal Spray

What's The Definition Of The Medical Condition Cyanocobalamin?

Clinical Pharmacology

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY General Pharmacology And Mechanism Of Action Vitamin B12 is essential to growth, cell reproduction, hematopoiesis, and nucleoprotein and myelin synthesis. Cells characterized by rapid division (e.g., epithelial cells, bone marrow, myeloid cells) appear to have the greatest requirement for vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 can be converted to coenzyme B12 in tissues, and as such is essential for conversion of methylmalonate to succinate and synthesis of methionine from homocysteine, a reaction which also requires folate. In the absence of coenzyme B12, tetrahydrofolate cannot be regenerated from its inactive storage form, 5- methyltetrahydrofolate, and a functional folate deficiency occurs. Vitamin B12 also may be involved in maintaining sulfhydryl (SH) groups in the reduced form required by many SH-activated enzyme systems. Through these reactions, vitamin B12 is associated with fat and carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency results in megaloblastic anemia, GI lesions, and neurologic damage that begins with an inability to produce myelin and is followed by gradual degeneration of the axon and nerve head. Cyanocobalamin is the most stable and widely used form of vitamin B12, and has hematopoietic activity apparently identical to that of the antianemia factor in purified liver extract. The information below, describing the clinical pharmacology of cyanocobalamin, has been derived from studies with injectable vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is quantitatively and rapidly absorbed from intramuscular and subcutaneous sites of injection. It is bound to plasma proteins and stored in the liver. Vitamin B12 is excreted in the bile and undergoes some enterohepatic recycling. Absorbed vitamin B12 is transported via specific B12 binding proteins, transcobalamin I and II, to the various tissues. The liver is the main organ for vitamin B12 storage. Parenteral (intramuscular) administration of vitamin B12 completely reverses the megaloblastic anemia and GI symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency; the degree of improvement in neurologic symptoms depends on the duration and severity of the lesions, although progression of the lesions is immediately arrested. Gastrointestinal absorption of vitamin B12 depends on the presence of sufficient intrinsic factor and calcium ions. Intrinsic factor deficiency causes pernicious anemia, which may be associated with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord. Prompt parenteral administration of vitamin B12 prevents progression of neurologic damage. The average diet supplies about 4 to 15 mcg/day of vitamin B12 in a protein-bound form that is available for absorption after normal digestion. Vitamin B12 is not present in foods of plant origin, but is abundant in foods of animal origin. In people with normal absorption, deficiencies have been reported only in strict vegetarians who consume no products of animal origin (including no milk products or eggs). Vitamin B12 is bound to intrinsic factor during transit through the stomach; separation occurs in the terminal ileum in the presence of calcium, and vitamin B12 enters the mucosal cell for absorption. It is then transported by the transcobalamin binding proteins. A small amount (approximately 1% of the total amount ingested) is absorbed by simple diffusion, but this mechanism is adequate only with very large doses. Oral absorption is considered too undependable to rely on in patients with pernicious anemia or other conditions resulting in malabsorption of vitamin B12. Colchicine, para-aminosalicylic acid, and heavy alcohol intake for longer than 2 weeks may produce malabsorption of vitamin B12. Pharmacokinetics Absorption A three way crossover study in 25 fasting healthy subjects was conducted to compare the bioavailability of the B12 nasal spray to the B12 nasal gel and to evaluate the relative bioavailability of the nasal formulations as compared to the intramuscular injection. The peak concentrations after administration of intranasal spray were reached in 1.25 +/- 1.9 hours. The average peak concentration of B12 obtained after baseline correction following administration of intranasal spray was 757.96 +/- 532.17 pg/mL. The bioavailability of the nasal spray relative to the intramuscular injection was found to be 6.1%. The bioavailability of the B12 nasal spray was found to be 10% less than the B12 nasal gel. The 90% confidence intervals for the loge-transformed AUC(0-t) and Cmax was 71.71% - 114.19% and 71.6% - 118.66% respectively. In pernicious anemia patients, once weekly intranasal dosing with 500 mcg B12 gel resulted in a consistent increase in pre-dose serum B12 levels during one month of treatment (p < 0.003) above that seen one month after 100 mcg intramuscular dose (Figure). Distribution In the blood, B12 is bound to transcobalamin II, a specific B-globulin carrier protein, and is distributed and stored primarily in the liver and bone marrow. Elimination About 3-8 mcg of B12 is secreted into the GI tract daily via the bile; in normal subjects with sufficient intrinsic factor, all but about 1 mcg is reabsorbed. When B12 is administered in doses which saturate the binding capacity of plasma proteins and the liver, the unbound B12 is rapidly eliminated in the urine. Retention of B12 in the body is dose-dependent. About 80-90% of an intramuscular dose up to 50 mcg is retained in the body; this percentage drops to 55% for a 100 mcg dose, and decreases to 15% when a 1000 mcg dose is given. Figure. Vitamin B12 Serum Trough Levels After Intramuscular Solution (IM) of 100 mcg and Nasal Gel (IN) Administration of 500 mcg Cyanocobalamin After Weekly Doses. Figure. Vitamin B12 Serum Trough Levels After Intramuscular Solution (IM) of 100 mcg and Nasal Gel (IN) Administration of 500 mcg Cyanocobalamin After Weekly Doses.

Clinical Pharmacology

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Vitamin B12 is essential to growth, cell reproduction, hematopoiesis, and nucleoprotein and myelin synthesis. Cyanocobalamin is quantitatively and rapidly absorbed from intramuscular and subcutaneous sites of injection; the plasma level of the compound reaches its peak within 1 hour after intramuscular injection. Absorbed vitamin B12 is transported via specific B12 binding proteins, transcobalamin I and II to the various tissues. The liver is the main organ for vitamin B12 storage. Within 48 hours after injection of 100 or 1000 mcg of vitamin B12, 50 to 98% of the injected dose may appear in the urine. The major portion is excreted within the first eight hours. Intravenous administration results in even more rapid excretion with little opportunity for liver storage. Gastrointestinal absorption of vitamin B12 depends on the presence of sufficient intrinsic factor and calcium ions. Intrinsic factor deficiency causes pernicious anemia, which may be associated with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord. Prompt parenteral administration of vitamin B12 prevents progression of neurologic damage. The average diet supplies about 5 to 15 mcg/day of vitamin B12 in a protein-bound form that is available for absorption after normal digestion. Vitamin B12 is not present in foods of plant origin, but is abundant in foods of animal origin. In people with normal absorption, deficiencies have been reported only in strict vegetarians who consume no products of animal origin (including no milk products or eggs). Vitamin B12 is bound to intrinsic factor during transit through the stomach; separation occurs in the terminal ileum in the presence of calcium, and vitamin B12 enters the mucosal cell for absorption. It is then transported by the transcobalamin binding proteins. A small amount (approximately 1% of the total amount ingested) is absorbed by simple diffusion, but this mechanism is adequate only with very large doses. Oral absorption is considered too undependable to rely on in patients with pernicious anemia or other conditions resulting in malabsorption of vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin is the most widely used form of vitamin B12, and has hematopoietic activity apparently identical to that of the antianemia factor in purified liver extract. Hydroxycobalamin is equally as effective as cyanocobalamin, and they share the cobalamin molecular structure.

Clinical Pharmacology

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Mechanism of Action Vitamin B12 is essential for growth, cell reproduction, hematopoiesis, and nucleoprotein and myelin synthesis. Rapidly dividing cells (e.g., epithelial cells, bone marrow, myeloid cells) have the greatest requirement for vitamin B12. In tissues, vitamin B12 is essential for the conversion of methylmalonate to succinate and for the synthesis of methionine from homocysteine. In the absence of vitamin B12, tetrahydrofolate cannot be regenerated from 5-methyl tetrahydrofolate, and functional folate deficiency occurs. Vitamin B12 also may be involved in sulfhydryl-activated enzyme systems associated with fat and carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis. Pharmacodynamics In 24 vitamin B12 deficient patients who were stabilized on intramuscular (IM) vitamin B12 therapy, once daily intranasal dosing with CaloMist Nasal Spray for 8 weeks resulted in serum vitamin B12 concentrations that were within the target range (>200 ng/L) and slightly higher than those seen 2 to 4 weeks after administration of IM vitamin B12 (see Figure 1 - average mean increase from Visit 1 to Visits 3-6 = 45 ng/L). Twenty-three of these 24 patients received 50 mcg of CaloMist Nasal Spray daily for the duration of the trial; the remaining patient required doubling of the CaloMist Nasal Spray dose from 50 mcg to 100 mcg daily during the last week of the study because of declining vitamin B12 concentrations. One of the 25 patients dosed with CaloMist Nasal Spray was excluded from the efficacy analyses because a diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency could not be confirmed. Figure 1 : Mean Vitamin B12 Serum Levels Over 8 Weeks of Intranasal (IN) Vitamin B12 Dosing in 24 Subjects Stabilized on Intramuscular (IM) Vitamin B12 Notes: - Weeks -2 to -4 correspond to 2 to 4 weeks post last IM injection - CaloMist Nasal Spray was initiated at Week 0. - Figure shows mean vitamin B12 serum levels with 95% confidence intervals. Pharmacokinetics Distribution In the blood, vitamin BI2 is bound to transcobalamin II (a specific B-globulin carrier protein) and is distributed to tissues and stored primarily in the liver and bone marrow. Elimination About 3-8 mcg of vitamin B12 is secreted into the gastrointestinal tract daily via the bile. In subjects with sufficient intrinsic factor, all but about 1 mcg is reabsorbed. When vitamin B12 is administered in doses that saturate the binding capacity of plasma proteins and the liver, the unbound vitamin B12 is rapidly eliminated in the urine. Retention of vitamin B12 in the body is dose-dependent.

Drug Description

Find Lowest Prices on Nascobal® Nasal spray (cyanocobalamin, USP) 500 mcg/spray 2.3 mL (8 sprays) DESCRIPTION Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 with equivalent vitamin B12 activity. The chemical name is 5,6-dimethyl-benzimidazolyl cyanocobamide. The cobalt content is 4.35%. The molecular formula is C63H88CoN14O14P, which corresponds to a molecular weight of 1355.38 and the following structural formula: Cyanocobalamin occurs as dark red crystals or orthorhombic needles or crystalline red powder. It is very hygroscopic in the anhydrous form, and sparingly to moderately soluble in water (1:80). Its pharmacologic activity is destroyed by heavy metals (iron) and strong oxidizing or reducing agents (vitamin C), but not by autoclaving for short periods of time (15-20 minutes) at 121°C. The vitamin B12 coenzymes are very unstable in light. Nascobal® Nasal Spray is a solution of Cyanocobalamin, USP (vitamin B12) for administration as a spray to the nasal mucosa. Each bottle of Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray contains 2.3 mL of a 500 mcg / 0.1 mL solution of cyanocobalamin with sodium citrate, citric acid, glycerin and benzalkonium chloride in purified water. The spray solution has a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. The spray pump unit must be fully primed (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION) prior to initial use. After initial priming, each spray delivers an average of 500 mcg of cyanocobalamin and the 2.3 mL of spray solution contained in the bottle will deliver 8 doses of Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray. The unit must be re-primed before each dose. (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Drug Description

Cyanocobalamin Injection, USP DESCRIPTION Cyanocobalamin Injection, USP is a sterile solution of cyanocobalamin for intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Each mL contains 1000 mcg cyanocobalamin. Each vial also contains Sodium Chloride, 0.9%. Benzyl Alcohol, 1.5%, is present as a preservative. Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid may have been added during manufacture to adjust the pH (range 4.5-7.0). Cyanocobalamin appears as dark red crystals or as an amorphous or crystalline red powder. It is very hygroscopic in the anhydrous form, and sparingly soluble in water (1:80). It is stable to autoclaving for short periods at 121°C. The vitamin B12 coenzymes are very unstable in light. The chemical name is 5,6-dimethyl-benzimidazolyl cyanocobamide; the molecular formula is C63H88C0N14O14P. The cobalt content is 4.34%. The molecular weight is 1355.39. The structural formula is represented below.

Drug Description

CaloMist Nasal Spray (cyanocobalamin, USP) DESCRIPTION Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 with activity equivalent to the endogenous form of vitamin B12. The chemical name is α-(5,6-dimethylbenzimidazolyl) cyanocobamide. The cobalt content is 4.35%. The molecular formula is C63H88CoN14O14P, which corresponds to a molecular weight of 1355.4 and the following structural formula: Cyanocobalamin occurs as dark red crystals, orthorhombic needles, or crystalline red powder and is very hygroscopic in the anhydrous form, and sparingly to moderately soluble in water (1:80). The pharmacologic activity of cyanocobalamin is destroyed by heavy metals (iron) and strong oxidizing or reducing agents (Vitamin C), but not by autoclaving for short periods of time (15-20 minutes) at 121° C. The vitamin B12 coenzymes are very unstable in light. Each bottle of CaloMist Nasal Spray contains cyanocobalamin, sodium chloride, sodium phosphate monobasic, benzyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide, and benzalkonium chloride in purified water with an attached spray pump unit.

Indications & Dosage

INDICATIONS Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is indicated for the maintenance of normal hematologic status in pernicious anemia patients who are in remission following intramuscular vitamin B12 therapy and who have no nervous system involvement. Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is also indicated as a supplement for other vitamin B12 deficiencies, including: I. Dietary deficiency of vitamin B12 occurring in strict vegetarians (Isolated vitamin B12 deficiency is very rare). II. Malabsorption of vitamin B12 resulting from structural or functional damage to the stomach, where intrinsic factor is secreted, or to the ileum, where intrinsic factor facilitates vitamin B12 absorption. These conditions include HIV infection, AIDS, Crohn's disease, tropical sprue, and nontropical sprue (idiopathic steatorrhea, gluten-induced enteropathy). Folate deficiency in these patients is usually more severe than vitamin B12 deficiency. III. Inadequate secretion of intrinsic factor, resulting from lesions that destroy the gastric mucosa (ingestion of corrosives, extensive neoplasia), and a number of conditions associated with a variable degree of gastric atrophy (such as multiple sclerosis, HIV infection, AIDS, certain endocrine disorders, iron deficiency, and subtotal gastrectomy). Total gastrectomy always produces vitamin B12 deficiency. Structural lesions leading to vitamin B12 deficiency include regional ileitis, ileal resections, malignancies, etc. IV. Competition for vitamin B12 by intestinal parasites or bacteria. The fish tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum) absorbs huge quantities of vitamin B12 and infested patients often have associated gastric atrophy. The ">blind loop syndrome may produce deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate. V. Inadequate utilization of vitamin B12. This may occur if antimetabolites for the vitamin are employed in the treatment of neoplasia. It may be possible to treat the underlying disease by surgical correction of anatomic lesions leading to small bowel bacterial overgrowth, expulsion of fish tapeworm, discontinuation of drugs leading to vitamin malabsorption (see Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions), use of a gluten free diet in nontropical sprue, or administration of antibiotics in tropical sprue. Such measures remove the need for long-term administration of vitamin B12. Requirements of vitamin B12 in excess of normal (due to pregnancy, thyrotoxicosis, hemolytic anemia, hemorrhage, malignancy, hepatic and renal disease) can usually be met with intranasal or oral supplementation. Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is not suitable for vitamin B12 absorption test (Schilling Test). DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The recommended initial dose of Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is one spray (500 mcg) administered in ONE nostril once weekly. Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray should be administered at least one hour before or one hour after ingestion of hot foods or liquids. Periodic monitoring of serum B12 levels should be obtained to establish adequacy of therapy. Priming (Activation) of Pump Before the first dose and administration, the pump must be primed. Remove the clear plastic cover and the plastic safety clip from the pump. To prime the pump, place nozzle between the first and second finger with the thumb on the bottom of the bottle. Pump the unit firmly and quickly until the first appearance of spray. Then prime the pump an additional 2 times. Now the nasal spray is ready for use. The unit must be re-primed before each dose. Prime the pump once immediately before each administration of doses 2 through 8. See LABORATORY TESTS for monitoring B12 levels and adjustment of dosage. HOW SUPPLIED Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is available as a spray in 3 mL glass bottles containing 2.3 mL of solution. It is available in a dosage strength of 500 mcg per actuation (0.1 mL/actuation). A screw-on actuator is provided. This actuator, following priming, will deliver 0.1 mL of the spray. Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is provided in a carton containing a nasal spray actuator with dust cover, a bottle of nasal spray solution, and a package insert. One bottle will deliver 8 doses (NDC 67871-773-35). Pharmacist Assembly Instructions For Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray The pharmacist should assemble the Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray unit prior to dispensing to the patient, according to the following instructions: Open the carton and remove the spray actuator and spray solution bottle. Assemble Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray by first unscrewing the white cap from the spray solution bottle and screwing the actuator unit tightly onto the bottle. Make sure the clear dust cover is on the pump unit. Return the Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray bottle to the carton for dispensing to the patient. Mfd. for QOL Medical, LLC Kirland, WA 98033, USA 1.866.469.3773 www.nascobal (cyanocobalamin) .com 3078 Rev. 02/06 FDA rev date: 9/15/2006

Indications & Dosage

INDICATIONS Cyanocobalamin is indicated for vitamin B12 deficiencies due to malabsorption which may be associated with the following conditions: Addisonian (pernicious) anemia Gastrointestinal pathology, dysfunction, or surgery, including gluten enteropathy or sprue, small bowel bacteria overgrowth, total or partial gastrectomy Fish tapeworm infestation Malignancy of pancreas or bowel Folic acid deficiency It may be possible to treat the underlying disease by surgical correction of anatomic lesions leading to small bowel bacterial overgrowth, expulsion of fish tapeworm, discontinuation of drugs leading to vitamin malabsorption (see DRUG INTERACTIONS), use of a gluten-free diet in nontropical sprue, or administration of antibiotics in tropical sprue. Such measures remove the need for long-term administration of cyanocobalamin. Requirements of vitamin B12 in excess of normal (due to pregnancy, thyrotoxicosis, hemolytic anemia, hemorrhage, malignancy, hepatic and renal disease) can usually be met with oral supplementation. Cyanocobalamin Injection, USP is also suitable for the vitamin B12absorption test (Schilling test). DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Avoid using the intravenous route. Use of this product intravenously will result in almost all of the vitamin being lost in the urine. Pernicious Anemia:Parenteral vitamin B12 is the recommended treatment and will be required for the remainder of the patient's life. The oral form is not dependable. A dose of 100 mcg daily for 6 or 7 days should be administered by intramuscular or deep subcutaneous injection. If there is clinical improvement and if a reticulocyte response is observed, the same amount may be given on alternate days for seven doses, then every 3 to 4 days for another 2 to 3 weeks. By this time hematologic values should have become normal. This regimen should be followed by 100 mcg monthly for life. Folic acid should be administered concomitantly if needed. Patients with Normal Intestinal Absorption: Where the oral route is not deemed adequate, initial treatment similar to that for patients with pernicious anemia may be indicated depending on the severity of the deficiency. Chronic treatment should be with an oral B12 preparation. If other vitamin deficiencies are present, they should be treated. Schilling Test: The flushing dose is 1000 mcg. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. HOW SUPPLIED Cyanocobalamin Injection, USP 1000 mcg/mL NDC 0517-0031-25 1 mL Vial Boxes of 25 NDC 0517-0032-25 10 mL Multiple Dose Vial Boxes of 25 NDC 0517-0130-01 30 mL Multiple Dose Vial Individually packaged NDC 0517-0130-05 30 mL Multiple Dose Vial Boxes of 5 Store at controlled room temperature 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) (See USP). PROTECT THE PRODUCT FROM LIGHT. American Regent, Inc.Shirley, NY 11967. FDA Rev date: 9/23/2003

Indications & Dosage

INDICATIONS Vitamin B12 Deficiency CaloMist Nasal Spray is indicated for maintenance of vitamin B12 concentrations after normalization with intramuscular vitamin B12 therapy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency who have no nervous system involvement. Important Limitations of Use CaloMist Nasal Spray has not been evaluated for the treatment of newly diagnosed vitamin B12 deficiency. CaloMist Nasal Spray is not suitable for use in the vitamin B12 absorption test (Schilling Test). The effectiveness of CaloMist Nasal Spray in patients with nasal pathology (e.g., nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis, upper respiratory infections) has not been determined. Treatment with CaloMist Nasal Spray should be deferred until nasal symptoms have subsided [see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS]. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Recommended Dose The recommended initial dose of CaloMist Nasal Spray is one spray in each nostril once daily (25 mcg per nostril, total daily dose 50 mcg). The dose should be increased to one spray in each nostril twice daily (total daily dose 100 mcg) for patients with an inadequate response to once daily dosing. The dosing of CaloMist Nasal Spray and other intranasal medications should be separated by several hours, and these patients should have more frequent monitoring of vitamin B12 concentrations because of the potential for erratic absorption. Priming (Activation) of Pump The pump must be primed before the bottle is used for the first time. To prime the pump, place the nozzle between the first and second finger with the thumb on the bottom of the bottle. Pump the unit firmly and quickly then repeat this priming an additional 6 times for a total of 7 priming sprays. Now the nasal spray is ready for first-time use. If 5 or more days elapse since last use, the pump must be re-primed with two re-priming sprays. Additional instructions are provided in the patient instruction sheet [see Patient Counseling Information]. Dosage Forms and Strengths CaloMist Nasal Spray (cyanocobalamin, USP) is a solution of cyanocobalamin, USP, for administration as a metered spray to the nasal mucosa. Each bottle of CaloMist Nasal Spray contains 18 mL of a 25 mcg/0.1 mL solution of cyanocobalamin. The spray solution has a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. After initial priming, each spray delivers 25 mcg of cyanocobalamin. Each bottle will deliver 60 sprays for a total of thirty 50 mcg doses of CaloMist Nasal Spray. HOW SUPPLIED AND STORAGE AND HANDLING CaloMist Nasal Spray is available as a metered dose spray in 30 mL plastic bottles containing 18 mL of solution. CaloMist Nasal Spray is available in a dosage strength of 25 mcg cyanocobalamin, USP, per actuation (0.1 mL/actuation). CaloMist Nasal Spray is provided in a carton containing one bottle of nasal spray solution affixed with a nasal spray pump, a package insert, and a patient instruction sheet. One bottle delivers thirty 50 mcg doses (60 sprays) (NDC 0256-0203-01). Storage Protect from light. Store upright at a controlled temperature of 15 to 30° C (59 to 86° F). Protect from freezing. Manufactured by: Fleming Pharmaceuticals., Fenton, MO 63026 USA calomist@flemingcompany.com., 1-800-343-0164. FDA rev date: 7/27/2007

Medication Guide

PATIENT INFORMATION Patients with pernicious anemia should be instructed that they will require weekly intranasal administration of Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray for the remainder of their lives. Failure to do so will result in return of the anemia and in development of incapacitating and irreversible damage to the nerves of the spinal cord. Also, patients should be warned about the danger of taking folic acid in place of vitamin B12, because the former may prevent anemia but allow progression of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord. (Hot foods may cause nasal secretions and a resulting loss of medication; therefore, patients should be told to administer Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray at least one hour before or one hour after ingestion of hot foods or liquids). A vegetarian diet which contains no animal products (including milk products or eggs) does not supply any vitamin B12. Therefore, patients following such a diet should be advised to take Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray weekly. The need for vitamin B12 is increased by pregnancy and lactation. Deficiency has been recognized in infants of vegetarian mothers who were breast fed, even though the mothers had no symptoms of deficiency at the time. Because the nasal dosage forms of Vitamin B12 have a lower absorption than intramuscular dosage, nasal dosage forms are administered weekly, rather than the monthly intramuscular dosage. As shown in the Figure above, at the end of a month, weekly nasal administration results in significantly higher serum Vitamin B12 levels than after intramuscular administration. The patient should also understand the importance of returning for follow-up blood tests every 3 to 6 months to confirm adequacy of the therapy. Careful instructions on the actuator assembly, removal of safety clip, priming of the actuator and nasal administration of Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray should be given to the patient. Although instructions for patients are supplied with individual bottles, procedures for use should be demonstrated to each patient. Storage Conditions Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until ready to use. Store upright at controlled room temperature 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from freezing.

Medication Guide

PATIENT INFORMATION Patients with pernicious anemia should be informed that they will require monthly injections of vitamin B12 for the remainder of their lives. Failure to do so will result in return of the anemia and in development of incapacitating and irreversible damage to the nerves of the spinal cord. Also, patients should be warned about the danger of taking folic acid in place of vitamin B12, because the former may prevent anemia but allow progression of subacute combined degeneration. A vegetarian diet which contains no animal products (including milk products or eggs) does not supply any vitamin B12. Patients following such a diet, should be advised to take oral vitamin B12 regularly. The need for vitamin B12 is increased by pregnancy and lactation. Deficiency has been recognized in infants of vegetarian mothers who were breast fed, even though the mothers had no symptoms of deficiency at the time.

Medication Guide

PATIENT INFORMATION PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION [See FDA-approved Patient Labeling] Important Information for Patients Patients with a chronic underlying cause of vitamin B12 deficiency will require indefinite administration of a vitamin B12 product, such as CaloMist Nasal Spray. Noncompliance or inadequate treatment with vitamin B12 therapy may result in recurrence of anemia and the development or worsening of irreversible neurological damage. The dosing of CaloMist Nasal Spray and other intranasal medications should be separated by several hours. Vitamin B12 concentrations should be monitored one month after CaloMist Nasal Spray initiation or dose change and every 3-6 months thereafter. Careful instructions on the priming of the actuator and nasal administration of CaloMist Nasal Spray should be given to the patient, and the procedures for use should be demonstrated. Patient Instruction Sheet Instructions for Using CaloMist Nasal Spray. Read the following instructions carefully before using CaloMist Nasal Spray. Use CaloMist Nasal Spray as directed by your doctor. NOTE: CaloMist Nasal Spray is prefilled to give 30 doses (60 sprays of medicine). One dose is one spray in each nostril once a day. CaloMist Nasal Spray Pump Priming: Before you use the medicine for the first time the nasal spray pump unit must be readied (primed). 1. Hold the nasal spray bottle upright with your index finger on top of one of the two arms of the pump. Remove the clear protective cap from the top of the nozzle. (See Diagram 1) 2. Remove the safety clip from the nasal spray pump. (See Diagram 1) 3. While holding the nasal spray bottle upright with your index and middle fingers on the two side arms of the pump, and your thumb on the bottom of the bottle, press the arms down firmly and quickly. (See Diagram 2) 4. Repeat Step 3, 6 more times for a total of 7 priming sprays. You should see a full spray of medicine with the 7th priming spray. (See Diagram 2) NOTE: You must prime CaloMist Nasal Spray with two re-priming sprays if you do not use for five days or more. Your CaloMist Nasal Spray is now ready to use. 1. Blow your nose gently to clear both nostrils. (See Diagram 3) 2. Hold the nasal spray bottle upright with your first and second fingers on the two side arms of the pump, and your thumb on the bottom of the bottle. (See Diagram 4) 3. Gently insert the nasal spray pump to one nostril (about ½ inch), pointing the tip towards the back of the nose. (See Diagram 4) 4. With your other hand (the one not holding the bottle) use a finger to gently push close your other nostril (the one without a spray pump inserted). (See Diagram 4) 5. Tilt your head forward and press the arms of the nasal spray bottle down firmly and quickly. 6. Sniff in gently during and right after a spray and return your head to an upright position. Repeat these steps for the other nostril. 7. Wipe the nozzle of the nasal spray pump with a clean tissue after use. Replace the safety clip and clear cover on the nasal spray pump. 8. Store CaloMist Nasal Spray upright at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Do not freeze. Discard CaloMist Nasal Spray after 30 doses (60 sprays). Unscrew the cap, rinse the bottle and pump assembly under a water faucet. Dispose of all parts in a trashcan. Keep CaloMist Nasal Spray and all medicines out of the reach of children.

Overdosage & Contraindications

OVERDOSE No overdosage has been reported with Nascobal Nasal Spray, Nascobal (Cyanocobalamin, USP) Gel for Intranasal Administration or parenteral vitamin B12. CONTRAINDICATIONS Sensitivity to cobalt and/or vitamin B12 or any component of the medication is a contraindication.

Overdosage & Contraindications

OVERDOSE No overdosage has been reported with this drug. CONTRAINDICATIONS Sensitivity to cobalt and/or vitamin B12 is a contraindication.

Overdosage & Contraindications

OVERDOSE No information provided. CONTRAINDICATIONS Sensitivity to cobalt, vitamin B12, or any component of this product [see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS].

Side Effects & Drug Interactions

SIDE EFFECTS The incidence of adverse experiences described in the Table below are based on data from a short-term clinical trial in vitamin B12 deficient patients in hematologic remission receiving Nascobal (Cyanocobalamin, USP) Gel for Intranasal Administration (N=24) and intramuscular vitamin B12 (N=25). In the pharmacokinetic study comparing Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray and Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Gel, the incidence of adverse events was similar. Table. Adverse Experiences by Body System, Number of Patients and Number of Occurrences by Treatment Following Intramuscular and Intranasal Administration of Cyanocobalamin. Number of Patients (Occurrences) Body System Adverse Experience Vitamin B12 Nasal Gel, 500 mcg N=24 Intramuscular Vitamin B12 , 100 mcg N=25 Body as a Whole Asthenia 1 (1) 4 (4) Back Pain 0 (0) 1 (1) Generalized Pain 0 (0) 2 (3) Headache 1 (2)* 5 (11) Infectiona 3 (4) 3 (3) Cardiovascular System Peripheral Vascular Disorder 0 (0) 1 (1) Digestive System Dyspepsia 0 (0) 1 (2) Glossitis 1 (1) 0 (0) Nausea 1 (1)* 1 (1) Nausea & Vomiting 0 (0) 1 (1) Vomiting 0 (0) 1 (1) MusculoskeletalSystem Arthritis 0 (0) 2 (2) Myalgia 0 (0) 1 (1) Nervous System Abnormal Gait 0 (0) 1 (1) Anxiety 0 (0) 1 (1)* Dizziness 0 (0) 3 (3) Hypoesthesia 0 (0) 1 (1) Incoordination 0 (0) 1 (2)* Nervousness 0 (0) 1 (3)* Paresthesia 1 (1) 1 (1) Respiratory Dyspnea 0 (0) 1 (1) System Rhinitis 1 (1)* 2 (2) a Sore throat, common cold * There may be a possible relationship between these adverse experiences and the study drugs. These adverse experiences could have also been produced by the patient's clinical state or other concomitant therapy. The intensity of the reported adverse experiences following the administration of Nascobal (Cyanocobalamin, USP) Gel for Intranasal Administration and intramuscular vitamin B12 were generally mild. One patient reported severe headache following intramuscular dosing. Similarly, a few adverse experiences of moderate intensity were reported following intramuscular dosing (two headaches and rhinitis; one dyspepsia, arthritis, and dizziness), and dosing with Nascobal (Cyanocobalamin, USP) Gel for Intranasal Administration (one headache, infection, and paresthesia). The majority of the reported adverse experiences following dosing with Nascobal (Cyanocobalamin, USP) Gel for Intranasal Administration and intramuscular vitamin B12 were judged to be intercurrent events. For the other reported adverse experiences, the relationship to study drug was judged as “possible” or “remote”. Of the adverse experiences judged to be of “possible” relationship to the study drug, anxiety, incoordination, and nervousness were reported following intramuscular vitamin B12 and headache, nausea, and rhinitis were reported following dosing with Nascobal (Cyanocobalamin, USP) Gel for Intranasal Administration. The following adverse reactions have been reported with parenteral vitamin B12: Generalized: Anaphylactic shock and death (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS). Cardiovascular: Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment; peripheral vascular thrombosis. Hematological: Polycythemia vera. Gastrointestinal: Mild transient diarrhea. Dermatological: Itching; transitory exanthema. Miscellaneous: Feeling of swelling of the entire body. DRUG INTERACTIONS Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions Persons taking most antibiotics, methotrexate or pyrimethamine invalidate folic acid and vitamin B12 diagnostic blood assays. Colchicine, para-aminosalicylic acid and heavy alcohol intake for longer than 2 weeks may produce malabsorption of vitamin B12.

Side Effects & Drug Interactions

SIDE EFFECTS Generalized: Anaphylactic shock and death have been reported with administration of parenteral vitamin B12 (See WARNINGS). Cardiovascular: Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment; peripheral vascular thrombosis. Hematological: Polycythemia vera Gastrointestinal: Mild transient diarrhea Dermatological: Itching; transitory exanthema Miscellaneous: Feeling of swelling of entire body DRUG INTERACTIONS Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions: Persons taking most antibiotics, methotrexate and pyrimethamine invalidate folic acid and vitamin B12 diagnostic blood assays. Colchicine para-aminosalicylic acid and heavy alcohol intake for longer than 2 weeks may produce malabsorption of vitamin B12.

Side Effects & Drug Interactions

SIDE EFFECTS Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below and in Table 1 reflect exposure in 25 subjects (age range 27-82 years; 17 women; 21 Caucasians) with vitamin B12 deficiency (12 with pernicious anemia, 4 secondary to gastrointestinal surgery, 9 with unknown cause) who received CaloMist Nasal Spray 50 mcg daily for 8 weeks in an uncontrolled clinical trial. Prior to enrollment, all subjects were required to have normal vitamin B12 levels with intramuscular vitamin BI2 injections. One patient who completed the study developed epistaxis on Day 12 of dosing and was noted to have irritation of the right nasal septum at study end. This patient had pre-existing allergic rhinitis and required a doubling of the CaloMist Nasal Spray dose during the last week of the study because of declining vitamin B12 concentrations. Table 1. Potentially related adverse reactions reported during 8 weeks of treatment with CaloMist Nasal Spray in an uncontrolled clinical trial. Preferred Term CaloMist Nasal Spray (cyanocobalamin) (N=25) n (%) Arthralgia 3 (12%) Dizziness 3 (12%) Headache 3 (12%) Nasopharyngitis 3 (12%) Rhinorrhea 3 (12%) Bronchitis 2 (8%) Nasal Discomfort 2 (8%) Pain 2 (8%) Rash 2 (8%) Asthma 1 (4%) Back Pain 1 (4%) Cough 1 (4%) Epistaxis 1 (4%) Hypersomnia 1 (4%) Influenza Like Illness 1 (4%) Malaise 1 (4%) Pharyngolaryngeal Pain 1 (4%) Postnasal Drip 1 (4%) Procedural Pain 1 (4%) Pyrexia 1 (4%) Scab 1 (4%) Sinus Headache 1 (4%) Sinusitis 1 (4%) Tooth Abscess 1 (4%) Experience with Parenteral Vitamin B12 The following adverse reactions have been reported with parenteral vitamin B12: Generalized: Anaphylactic shock and death Cardiovascular: Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment Peripheral vascular thrombosis Hematological : Polycythemia vera Gastrointestinal: Mild transient diarrhea Dermatological: Itching; transitory exanthema Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of cyanocobalamin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Angioedema and angioedema-like reactions [See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS] DRUG INTERACTIONS Most antibiotics, methotrexate, and pyrimethamine invalidate the vitamin B12 diagnostic blood assays.

Warnings & Precautions

WARNINGS Patients with early Leber's disease (hereditary optic nerve atrophy) who were treated with vitamin B12 suffered severe and swift optic atrophy. Hypokalemia and sudden death may occur in severe megaloblastic anemia which is treated intensely with vitamin B12. Folic acid is not a substitute for vitamin B12 although it may improve vitamin B12-deficient megaloblastic anemia. Exclusive use of folic acid in treating vitamin B12-deficient megaloblastic anemia could result in progressive and irreversible neurologic damage. Anaphylactic shock and death have been reported after parenteral vitamin B12 administration. No such reactions have been reported in clinical trials with Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray or Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Gel. Blunted or impeded therapeutic response to vitamin B12 may be due to such conditions as infection, uremia, drugs having bone marrow suppressant properties such as chloramphenicol, and concurrent iron or folic acid deficiency. PRECAUTIONS General An intradermal test dose of parenteral vitamin B12 is recommended before Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray is administered to patients suspected of cyanocobalamin sensitivity. Vitamin B12 deficiency that is allowed to progress for longer than three months may produce permanent degenerative lesions of the spinal cord. Doses of folic acid greater than 0.1 mg per day may result in hematologic remission in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. Neurologic manifestations will not be prevented with folic acid, and if not treated with vitamin B12, irreversible damage will result. Doses of vitamin B12 exceeding 10 mcg daily may produce hematologic response in patients with folate deficiency. Indiscriminate administration may mask the true diagnosis. The validity of diagnostic vitamin B12 or folic acid blood assays could be compromised by medications, and this should be considered before relying on such tests for therapy. Vitamin B12 is not a substitute for folic acid and since it might improve folic acid deficient megaloblastic anemia, indiscriminate use of vitamin B12 could mask the true diagnosis. Hypokalemia and thrombocytosis could occur upon conversion of severe megaloblastic to normal erythropoiesis with vitamin B12 therapy. Therefore, serum potassium levels and the platelet count should be monitored carefully during therapy. Vitamin B12 deficiency may suppress the signs of polycythemia vera. Treatment with vitamin B12 may unmask this condition. If a patient is not properly maintained with Nascobal® (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray, intramuscular vitamin B12 is necessary for adequate treatment of the patient. No single regimen fits all cases, and the status of the patient observed in follow-up is the final criterion for adequacy of therapy. The effectiveness of Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray in patients with nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis and upper respiratory infections has not been determined. Therefore, treatment with Nascobal (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray should be deferred until symptoms have subsided. Laboratory Tests Hematocrit, reticulocyte count, vitamin B12, folate and iron levels should be obtained prior to treatment. If folate levels are low, folic acid should also be administered. All hematologic parameters should be normal when beginning treatment with Nascobal® (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray. Vitamin B12 blood levels and peripheral blood counts must be monitored initially at one month after the start of treatment with Nascobal® (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray, and then at intervals of 3 to 6 months. A decline in the serum levels of B12 after one month of treatment with B12 nasal spray may indicate that the dose may need to be adjusted upward. Patients should be seen one month after each dose adjustment; continued low levels of serum B12 may indicate that the patient is not a candidate for this mode of administration. Patients with pernicious anemia have about 3 times the incidence of carcinoma of the stomach as in the general population, so appropriate tests for this condition should be carried out when indicated. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility Long-term studies in animals to evaluate carcinogenic potential have not been done. There is no evidence from long-term use in patients with pernicious anemia that vitamin B12 is carcinogenic. Pernicious anemia is associated with an increased incidence of carcinoma of the stomach, but this is believed to be related to the underlying pathology and not to treatment with vitamin B12. Pregnancy Pregnancy Category C: Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with vitamin B12. It is also not known whether vitamin B12 can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Adequate and well-controlled studies have not been done in pregnant women. However, vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin and requirements are increased during pregnancy. Amounts of vitamin B12 that are recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Science - National Research Council for pregnant women should be consumed during pregnancy. Nursing Mothers Vitamin B12 appears in the milk of nursing mothers in concentrations which approximate the mother's vitamin B12 blood level. Amounts of vitamin B12 that are recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Science-National Research Council for lactating women should be consumed during lactation. Pediatric Use Intake in pediatric patients should be in the amount recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Science-National Research Council. Please also see PATIENT INFORMATION

Warnings & Precautions

WARNINGS Patients with early Leber's disease (hereditary optic nerve atrophy) who were treated with cyanocobalamin suffered severe and swift optic atrophy. Hypokalemia and sudden death may occur in severe megaloblastic anemia which is treated intensely. Anaphylactic shock and death have been reported after parenteral vitamin B12 administration. An intradermal test dose is recommended before Cyanocobalamin Injection, USP is administered to patients suspected of being sensitive to this drug. This product contains Benzyl Alcohol. Benzyl Alcohol has been reported to be associated with a fatal "Gasping Syndrome" in premature infants. This product contains aluminum that may be toxic. Aluminum may reach toxic levels with prolonged parenteral administration if kidney function is impaired. Premature neonates are particularly at risk because their kidneys are immature, and they require large amounts of calcium and phosphate solutions, which contain aluminum. Research indicates that patients with impaired kidney function, including premature neonates, who receive parenteral levels of aluminum at greater than 4 to 5 mcg/kg/day accumulate aluminum at levels associated with central nervous system and bone toxicity. Tissue loading may occur at even lower rates of administration. PRECAUTIONS General Precautions Vitamin B12 deficiency that is allowed to progress for longer than 3 months may produce permanent degenerative lesions of the spinal cord. Doses of folic acid greater than 0.1 mg per day may result in hematologic remission in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. Neurologic manifestations will not be prevented with folic acid, and if not treated with vitamin B12, irreversible damage will result. Doses of cyanocobalamin exceeding 10 mcg daily may produce hematologic response in patients with folate deficiency. Indiscriminate administration may mask the true diagnosis. Laboratory Tests During the initial treatment of patients with pernicious anemia, serum potassium must be observed closely the first 48 hours and potassium replaced if necessary. Hematocrit, reticulocyte count, vitamin B12, folate and iron levels should be obtained prior to treatment. Hematocrit and reticulocyte counts should be repeated daily from the fifth to seventh days of therapy and then frequently until the hematocrit is normal. If folate levels are low, folic acid should also be administered. If reticulocytes have not increased after treatment or if reticulocyte counts do not continue at least twice normal as long as the hematocrit is less than 35%, diagnosis or treatment should be reevaluated. Repeat determinations of iron and folic acid may reveal a complicating illness that might inhibit the response of the marrow. Patients with pernicious anemia have about 3 times the incidence of carcinoma of the stomach as the general population, so appropriate tests for this condition should be carried out when indicated. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long term studies in animals to evaluate carcinogenic potential have not been done. There is no evidence from long-term use in patients with pernicious anemia that cyanocobalamin is carcinogenic. Pernicious anemia is associated with an increased incidence of carcinoma of the stomach, but this is believed to be related to the underlying pathology and not to treatment with cyanocobalamin. Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category C: Adequate and well-controlled studies have not been done in pregnant women. However, vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin and requirements are increased during pregnancy. Amounts of vitamin B12 that are recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Science-National Research Council for pregnant women (4 mcg daily) should be consumed during pregnancy. Nursing Mothers Vitamin B12 is known to be excreted in human milk. Amounts of vitamin B12 that are recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Science-National Research Council for lactating women (4 mcg daily) should be consumed during lactation. Pediatric Use Intake in children should be in the amount (0.5 to 3 mcg daily) recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Science-National Research Council.

Warnings & Precautions

WARNINGS Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section. PRECAUTIONS Laboratory Monitoring Hematocrit, reticulocyte count, vitamin B12, folate, and iron levels should be obtained prior to treatment. All hematologic parameters, including vitamin B12 concentrations, should be normal before initiating treatment with CaloMist Nasal Spray. Periodic monitoring of serum vitamin B12 concentrations must be obtained to confirm adequacy of therapy. Vitamin B12 concentrations and complete blood counts should be monitored one month after starting CaloMist Nasal Spray and then at 3 to 6 month intervals thereafter. Patients with borderline-low vitamin B12 concentrations (<300 ng/L) should also undergo measurement of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine concentrations, which are more sensitive measures of vitamin B12 deficiency in this setting. Patients with declining or abnormally low vitamin B12 concentrations despite maximal doses of CaloMist Nasal Spray should be switched back to intramuscular vitamin B12 injections. Vitamin B12 deficiency that is inadequately treated for longer than three months may produce irreversible neurological damage. Use in Patients With Nasal Pathology CaloMist Nasal Spray has not been evaluated in patients with nasal pathology. Treatment with CaloMist Nasal Spray should be deferred until nasal symptoms have subsided. Patients with chronic nasal symptoms or significant nasal pathology are not ideal candidates for intranasal vitamin B12 therapy. If CaloMist Nasal Spray therapy is attempted in these patients, vitamin B12 concentrations should be monitored more frequently than in patients without nasal pathology because of the potential for erratic or blunted absorption. Use in Patients with Leber's Disease Patients with early Leber's disease (hereditary optic nerve atrophy) who were treated with cyanocobalamin suffered severe and swift optic atrophy. Cyanocobalamin should not be used in these patients. Anaphylaxis and Angioedema Anaphylactic shock, death, and angioedema were not reported in the CaloMist Nasal Spray clinical trial but have been reported with parenteral vitamin B12 administration. Megaloblastic Anemia Megaloblastic anemia has many causes, including vitamin B12 deficiency and folate deficiency. Folic acid may result in a hematological response in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency, but will not prevent irreversible neurological manifestations. Vitamin B12 is not an appropriate treatment for folate deficiency. Hypokalemia, thrombocytosis, and sudden death may occur when severe megaloblastic anemia is treated intensely with vitamin B12. Serum potassium and the platelet count should be carefully monitored in this setting. Blunted Response to Vitamin B12 Therapy Infections, uremia, concurrent iron or folic acid deficiency, and drugs with bone marrow suppressant properties (e.g., chloramphenicol) may blunt the therapeutic response to vitamin B12 products, including CaloMist Nasal Spray. Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility There are no long-term studies in animals that have evaluated the carcinogenic potential of any of the vitamin B12 products, including CaloMist Nasal Spray. There is no evidence from long-term use in patients with pernicious anemia that vitamin B12 is carcinogenic. Pernicious anemia is associated with an increased incidence of carcinoma of the stomach, but this malignancy has been attributed to the underlying pathology of pernicious anemia and not to treatment with vitamin B12. Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Pregnancy Category C Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with CaloMist Nasal Spray. Although vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin and requirements are increased during pregnancy, it is not known whether CaloMist Nasal Spray can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. CaloMist Nasal Spray should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. Adequate and well-controlled studies have not been conducted in pregnant women. Nursing Mothers Although vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin and requirements are increased during lactation, it is not known whether CaloMist Nasal Spray can cause harm to an infant when administered to a nursing woman. Vitamin B12 appears in the milk of nursing mothers in concentrations that approximate the mother's vitamin B12 blood level. Caution should be exercised when CaloMist Nasal Spray is administered to a nursing woman. Pediatric Use Because CaloMist Nasal Spray has not been studied in children, safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients. Geriatric Use Clinical studies of CaloMist Nasal Spray did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Renal/Hepatic Impairment Patients with vitamin B12 deficiency and concurrent renal or hepatic disease may require increased doses or more frequent administration of vitamin B12 therapy.

More Medical Conditions

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Medical Conditions Definitions Of The Day