Longevity (MIC-B12, B12, Lipo + B6, Metformin ER)
What are these products?
MIC-B12, methylcobalamin B12 and Lipo + B6 are compounded medications prescribed as part of a longevity plan. Compounded medications may be prescribed under federal law, but they are not FDA-approved, and the FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or manufacturing quality. Research on many of these treatments in people is still early. Metformin ER is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes; using it for longevity is off-label.
Who should not use them?
- Do not use any of these products if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your provider says it’s safe.
- Do not use a product if you’re allergic to any of its ingredients. Do not use B12 products if you’re allergic to cobalt or vitamin B12.
- Do not use metformin if you have severe kidney disease, a condition called metabolic acidosis, or drink alcohol heavily.
How should I use them?
- Injections: inject at home exactly as your provider and pharmacy instructions show you. Rotate sites, and put used needles in a sharps container.
- Metformin ER: take with your evening meal and swallow it whole. Don’t crush or chew it.
- Store each product as the pharmacy label directs.
What should I tell my provider first?
Tell your provider about every medicine and supplement you take, and if you have kidney, liver, heart or thyroid problems, diabetes, a history of cancer, or are planning surgery or a scan with contrast dye. You may need to pause metformin before these procedures.
What are the most serious side effects?
If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Get medical help right away if you have:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, hives, or trouble breathing
- Signs of infection at an injection site, such as spreading redness, warmth, pus or fever
- Chest pain or a fast or irregular heartbeat
- With metformin, signs of lactic acidosis: unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, severe tiredness, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, or feeling cold or dizzy
What are the most common side effects?
- Injections: redness, soreness or swelling where you inject
- Vitamin injections: mild diarrhea, itching or acne
- Metformin: upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, gas; long-term use can lower vitamin B12 levels
Other important information
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
This summary provides basic information about these products but does not include everything known about them. Your ReformedRx provider can answer any questions about side effects before you start treatment. Please also read the information that comes with your prescription each time it’s filled.