Methylcobalamin, also known as Vitamin B12, is an important vitamin needed for the brain, nerves, and production of red blood cells in the body. It is used to treat not only vitamin B12 deficiency, but also other conditions, such as pernicious anemia and diabetes. It also helps increase metabolic energy and improve mood regulation. Some clinical trials are also testing its use in people with dementia as well.

Methylcobalamin is made both in the body and created within a laboratory for supplemental purposes. Most vitamin B12 supplements contain cyanocobalamin, which is another form of B12. However, in order for the B12 to be utilized in the body, the liver must detoxify the cyanocobalamin and attach it to a methyl group to form methylcobalamin, the biologically active and tissue-ready form. Research shows that methylcobalamin is more efficiently used and retained in the body than cyanocobalamin. Methylcobalamin can also be found in foods, such as clams, mollusks, liver, fish, lamb, veal, beef, and dairy products.