Vitamin B₁₂ is a group of compounds containing cobalt (corrinoids, cobalamins) that is normally supplied in ample amounts in meat, fish or dairy products. In the body, vitamin B₁₂ is transformed into coenzyme forms (methylcobalamin, deoxyadenosylcobalamin). These coenzymes are important for the synthesis of nucleic acids and myelin; they guarantee the maturation of red cells and the integrity of the nervous tissue. Daily requirements are 2 to 4 µg. Since the human body stores 4 to 5 g of vitamin B₁₂, the relapse on cessation is only manifest after several years. In therapeutic use, hydroxocobalamin is superior to cyanocobalamin because it is better retained in the body.

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