Vitamin B Complex Injectable

What is Vitamin B complex injectable?

Vitamin B complex injectable (Hi-Po B Complex, Vitamin B Complex, Neogen®Vet Liver 7 Injection) is a solution containing multiple forms of Vitamin B, which are used together to prevent or treat Vitamin B deficiencies.

These vitamins promote good overall health for your pet and regulate certain processes in the body. Their main functions are to maintain nerve function, skin, hair, and muscle tone. Vitamin B complex is also essential to red blood cell formation and to help reduce the effects of stress. Vitamin B complex injection is labeled for use in dogs, cats, and horses, depending on which brand is being used.

It is used off label (extra label) to treat Vitamin B deficiencies in guinea pigs, and as an appetite stimulant in ferrets, birds, rodents, and sugar gliders. “Off-label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the FDA or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is Vitamin B complex injectable given?

• Vitamin B complex injectable comes as a solution for injection either under the skin (SQ) or into the muscle (IM). 
• Injections may be given by veterinary personnel or at home by pet owners. 
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions for administration

This medication can take several days to have full effects on the body, but side effects can occur immediately. Visible improvements are not always evident. 

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose of Vitamin B complex injectable, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Vitamin B complex injectable is usually well tolerated and adverse reactions are uncommon at recommended doses. It may cause the following side effects:

• discomfort at the local injection site when injected intramuscularly

Serious adverse reactions are possible with all injectable medications, including this drug. They may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• swelling
• hives
• changes in respiration
• vomiting
• prolonged signs of agitation

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction each time this medication is used. 

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. Vitamin B complex injectable is a short-acting medication that will stop working within 24 hours, but effects may be prolonged in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Vitamin B complex injectable should NOT BE USED in patients who:

• have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug
• are pregnant, breeding, or nursing, as safety in these pets has not been established

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Make sure your veterinarian is aware of any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment. There are no documented drug interactions with this medication.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian. 
• Baseline blood work is often required to assess your pet's general health. 
• Periodic blood work is also advised to monitor this medication's effects on the body if long-term therapy is necessary. Based on these results, your veterinarian will assess how your pet is responding clinically and may adjust the dose.

How do I store Vitamin B complex injectable?

• Keep out of reach of children and other animals.
• Store in a child-proof container in a cool, dry place. 
• Store at room temperature, between 59°F-86°F (15°C-30°C), away from heat and direct sunlight.

What should I do in case of emergency?

• If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. 
• Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.