Mecobalamin is a methylated form of vitamin B12 with a different chemical structure from other types of vitamin B12. It is primarily used for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy.
As an endogenous coenzyme B12, mecobalamin plays a crucial role in the one-carbon unit cycle and in the methylation reaction converting homocysteine to methionine. This process supports the synthesis of thymidine in brain cells and spinal cord neurons, enhances the utilization of folic acid, and promotes nucleic acid metabolism. Additionally, mecobalamin improves the excitability of nerve fibers and restores neurotransmitter levels.
Mecobalamin tablets are a form of endogenous coenzyme B12 that significantly contributes to the one-carbon unit cycle and the methylation of homocysteine to methionine. Apart from aiding in thymidine synthesis, folic acid utilization, and nucleic acid metabolism, mecobalamin enhances nerve fiber excitability and neurotransmitter levels. Compared to other forms of vitamin B12, mecobalamin has better transmissibility to nerve tissue, promotes nucleic acid, protein, and fat metabolism, and helps repair damaged nerve tissue. It is particularly effective for treating peripheral neuropathies such as diabetic neuropathy and multiple neuritis, with significant relief for symptoms like numbness, pain, and paralysis. In treating peripheral neuropathy, mecobalamin is superior to adenosylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin in terms of safety and efficacy.
Vitamin B12 is naturally found only in animal-based foods and is crucial for brain function and various biochemical reactions in the body. Deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, which is common among strict vegetarians due to their limited intake of animal-based foods. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and certain vulnerable age groups are also at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. Global reports show that the deficiency rate among vegetarians is about 62%, while pregnant women, children, adolescents, and the elderly have deficiency rates ranging from 25% to 86%, 21% to 41%, and 11% to 90%, respectively. Therefore, addressing this issue through interventions or vitamin-fortified foods is crucial to reducing the number of individuals with vitamin B12 deficiency.
Scientists have extensively researched the natural sources of vitamin B12, finding it in various animals, bacteria, and large algae, including seaweed. In recent years, vitamin B12 has been widely extracted from algae rich in this nutrient, particularly Ulva lactuca. This extract can be further used as a food ingredient or food fortifier to combat vitamin deficiency. However, since the activity of vitamin B12 varies depending on its source (animal, bacteria, or algae), standardizing these extracts is necessary to meet pharmacopoeia standards.
