B12 is contraindicated in patients with hereditary optic neuropathy, and may be cautioned against at high doses in oncology patients because of its role in DNA synthesis. Supplemental folic acid may mask a B12 deficiency, which should be ruled out, and folic acid and increased potassium intake is recommended with B12 therapy. B12 is considered safe in pregnant and lactating women, and may be indicated in children with a low dietary intake.
Drug Interactions: Although several classes of drugs, such as aminoglycosides, anticonvulsants, bile acid sequestrants, and proton pump inhibitors are known to either interfere with B12 absorption or function, there are no known negative interactions caused by B12 supplementation with any medications. B12 may enhance the function ore reduce the adverse effects of several medication classes, such as SSRIs and oral contraceptives.
Although there is inadequate evidence to support the following drug interactions, caution should be taken. The following drugs may interfere with the absorption or utilization of vitamin B12: Antibiotics, Aldomet®, Atromid-S®, Azidothymidine (AZT), Azulfidine®, birth control pills, Cimetidine (Tagamet®), Metformin (Glucophage®), Isoniazid (Laniazid®), Pepcid®, Prevacid®, Prilosec®, Ranitidine (Zantac®).