Can I take Hydroxocobalamin and Sukkarto together?

Why this happens

Sukkarto (metformin) interferes with the way the digestive system absorbs Vitamin B12 from food and supplements. It can also affect how the body moves B12 into the blood. Since you are taking hydroxocobalamin to replace or boost your B12 levels, the Sukkarto may work against this by reducing how much of the vitamin your body can actually use.

What you should do

You can take these medicines together, but you should inform your doctor. They may want to perform regular blood tests to check your Vitamin B12 levels, especially if you have been taking Sukkarto for a long time. If you feel unusually tired, have a sore tongue, or feel 'pins and needles' in your hands or feet, tell your doctor as these can be signs of low B12.

Important precautions

Severe kidney or liver problems

You must not take Sukkarto if you have severe kidney or liver failure, as it significantly increases the risk of a rare but life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis.

Dehydration or severe infection

Stop taking Sukkarto and seek medical advice immediately if you develop severe vomiting, diarrhoea, or a high fever. These can lead to dehydration, which increases the risk of serious kidney problems while on this medicine.

X-ray or scan using iodine contrast dye

You must stop taking Sukkarto before and for 48 hours after having an X-ray or scan involving an injection of 'contrast dye', as the combination can cause acute kidney failure.

Hypokalaemia (low potassium)

When starting treatment for severe vitamin B12 deficiency, your potassium levels can drop rapidly as your body produces new red blood cells. This can be dangerous for your heart and may require monitoring by your doctor.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking Sukkarto. Combining alcohol with metformin increases the risk of a rare but very serious condition called lactic acidosis (a build-up of acid in the blood). It can also increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while receiving hydroxocobalamin treatment. Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with the absorption of Vitamin B12 and may worsen the underlying deficiency being treated. Combining alcohol with medication also increases the risk of liver strain.

General Food Intake

Sukkarto should be taken with or immediately after a meal. This helps to reduce common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, and diarrhoea.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.