COBAFORTE ® is a Cobamamide based drug.
THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Vitamin B12 - Antianemic.
Indications COBAFORTE ® Cobamamide
COBAFORTE ® is used in the treatment of all states characterized by vitamin B12 deficiency, with particular efficacy for anemic and neurological conditions.
COBAFORTE ® Cobamamide mechanism of action
Cobamamide is one of the many coenzymatic forms of vitamin B12 (cobalamin), which - taken orally through COBAFORTE ® is protected from the intrinsic factor in the gastric environment and subsequently gradually absorbed at the duodenal level. After passing through the enterocyte, it is transported into the blood stream. , mainly linked to plasma proteins (primarily transcobalamin), towards the various organic districts, in particular to the liver, kidney, brain, pancreas and bone marrow, where it tends to fix itself. The remainder, i.e. the unsettled one, will be eliminated unchanged through the urine.
Cyanocobalamin and its various active isoforms are included as cofactors of numerous enzymatic reactions, which include, for example, the synthesis of amino acids such as methionine, homocysteine detoxification, nucleic acid synthesis and energy production.
In the hematopoietic context, cobamamide is of fundamental importance for the synthesis of hemoglobin, so much so that its deficiencies are associated with a particular form of anemia, known as pernicious anemia, characterized by the reduced maturation of erythrocytes, which appear macrocytic and hyperchromic.
In most cases, the disease is not so much associated with a nutritional deficiency of vitamin B12, as with a reduction in the production of intrinsic factor by the parietal cells of the stomach, which prevents its correct absorption.
Studies carried out and clinical efficacy
1. LACK OF VITAMIN B12 IN THE ELDERLY
Annu Rev Nutr. 1999; 19: 357-77.
Vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly.
Baik HW, Russell RM.
About 10/15% of patients over 60 show a vitamin B12 deficiency, which inevitably affects some very important hemato-clinical parameters. First of all, there is an increase in megalocytic and immature erythrocytes with reduced functional capacity, accompanied by a significant increase in homocysteine, responsible for many cardiovascular diseases. For these patients, the need for vitamin B12 increases significantly, so much so that it is hardly satisfied by the "diet." Integration with this vitamin allows, even quickly, the recovery of the haematological picture.
2. FOLIC ACID, VITAMIN B12 AND CANCER
Cancer Causes Control. 2006 Nov; 17: 1209-13.
Folate, vitamin B12 and postmenopausal breast cancer in a prospective study of French women.
Lajous M, Romieu I, Sabia S, Boutron-Ruault MC, Clavel-Chapelon F.
Several studies and growing experimental evidence have confirmed the hypothesis of a potential preventive role of vitamin B12 on the incidence and progression of some tumor pathologies. This cohort study, in detail, has shown how the high intake of folate and vitamin B12 can be associated with a decrease in the risk of developing breast cancer.
3. VITAMIN B12, HOMOCYSTEINE AND ALZHEIMER
Neurology. 2001 May 8; 56: 1188-94.
Vitamin B and folate in relation to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Wang HX, Wahlin A, Basun H, Fastbom J, Winblad B, Fratiglioni L.
Vitamin B12 deficiencies are often associated with major problems in metabolic terms, which also affect the concentration of an important metabolite such as homocysteine.
High concentrations of this molecule have been associated with the development of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
The correct intake of vitamin B12, and the constant monitoring of its serum levels, could therefore be important in the prevention and adjuvant treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Method of use and dosage
COBAFORTE ® cobamamide 2.5 mg capsules: the gastrosensitive capsules tend to dissolve easily in the stomach, allowing the release of the active ingredient which will be absorbed in the intestine.
The recommended dosage for adolescents, adults and the elderly is approximately 2 capsules per day, taken for approximately 3/6 weeks.
It is possible to resort to intramuscular administration when the patient has an intrinsic factor deficiency which prevents oral absorption.
The dosages and times of administration can be varied by the doctor after a careful evaluation of the patient's clinical picture and its therapeutic objectives.
IN ANY CASE, BEFORE THE ASSUMPTION OF COBAFORTE ® Cobamamide - THE PRESCRIPTION AND CONTROL OF YOUR DOCTOR IS NECESSARY.
Warnings COBAFORTE ® Cobamamide
Before taking COBAFORTE ®, it would be necessary to investigate in detail the anemic picture through hemato-clinical analyzes, in order to avoid diagnostic and consequently therapeutic errors.
Cobamamide is a highly photosensitive and photolabile molecule; therefore, it would be advisable to provide for rapid intake once the capsule has been discarded from the blister; for the same reason the vials must necessarily be stored in the dark.
The capsules contain lactose, therefore taking COBAFORTE ® could be associated with gastrointestinal disorders in patients with glucose-galactose malabsorption or lactase enzyme deficiency.
COBAFORTE ® has absolutely no influence on the ability to drive vehicles and use machines.
PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING
There are no restrictions or special warnings regarding the use of COBAFORTE ® during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as long as normal therapeutic doses are respected and there is really a medical indication for treatment.
Interactions
At the moment there are no known pharmacokinetically interesting or potentially dangerous interactions for the patient's health.
Contraindications COBAFORTE ® Cobamamide
COBAFORTE ® is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the drug or to other various forms of vitamin B12.
Undesirable Effects - Side Effects
COBAFORTE ® is very well tolerated and rarely associated with gastrointestinal disorders or acneic skin rashes, indicating possible hypersensitivity to the product.
In the latter case it is strongly recommended to suspend the treatment.
Note
COBAFORTE ® can only be sold under medical prescription.
The information on COBAFORTE ® Cobamamide published on this page may be out of date or incomplete. For a correct use of this information, see the Disclaimer and useful information page.