A vitamin from the B-complex family known as cobalamins, cyanocobalamin is one of them (corrinoids). It is a synthetic or artificial form of vitamin B12 that is sold both on the market and by prescription. There are various more chemical types of cobalamins, such as hydroxocobalamin, methylcobalamin, and adenosylcobalamin. 12 The most prevalent type of cobalamin found in dietary supplements and meals with added nutrients is cyanocobalamin. It is more stable than other forms of vitamin B12 because it has a cyano (cyanide) group in its structure, which prevents the molecule from degrading. However, because hydroxycobalamin is the form of vitamin B12 that is the most physiologically active, it is preferred over cyanocobalamin for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency.1234

Foods do not normally contain cyanocobalamin because cyanide, which is not in the vitamin’s natural form, is present. The uncommon mineral cobalt (4.34 percent) is a component of cyanocobalamin’s chemical structure and is responsible for binding the cyano group to a corrin ring in the middle of the compound. 5 Bacterial fermentation is used in the commercial production of the vitamin. It is more air-stable and easier to crystallize than other forms of vitamin B12. 3 Orthorhombic needles, red crystals, or a dark red, amorphous or crystalline powder are the most common forms of cyanocobalamin. The substance is extremely hygroscopic in its anhydrous state. If exposed to air, it may absorb up to 12% of water. Cyanocobalamin is insoluble in chloroform, acetone, and ether but only sporadically soluble in alcohol and water (1 in 80 of water). This vitamin’s coenzymes are very light-sensitive. 6

There are numerous dosing forms for cyanocobalamin, including tablets, nasal spray, and injectable. The medication was first given approval by the US-FDA in 1942. 7 But in the early 1950s, the drug became widely accessible for regular usage in the management of B12 insufficiency. 8