B12 Injections
B12 injections are an option if supplementation for the B12 vitamin is required.
Possible Causes of B12 Deficiency
The vitamin B12 is found in meat and dairy products so people who limit or eliminate animal derived foods from their diets possess a strong risk of having a B12 deficiency. Intestinal disorders, excessive alcohol use, weakened internal systems, and certain medical conditions can also increase the risk for deficiency, and certain conditions such as pernicious anemia or removal of the stomach outright prevents the body being able to absorb the vitamin. Even though the body does not need B12 in high amounts (a recommended daily amount ranging from 0.4 micrograms for infants, gradually increasing through age groups to 2.4 micrograms for men and non-pregnant and non-lactating women), if left untreated, deficiency can lead to severe neurological, respiratory, circulatory, or intestinal damage.
Alternate Delivery Methods May Not be Possible
Oral, patch, or nasal spray supplementation of vitamin B12 may not be possible or desired, making injection a viable option. The cyanocobalamin nutrient is injected into the muscle, allowing for direct entrance through the bloodstream, and can be done by a health care professional or by yourself. If done by yourself, make sure to take proper precautions- only use one disposable needle for each injection, and dispose of all supplies according to your local or state laws for hazardous waste. B12 is non-toxic, but should children, animals, and any person other than the patient come into contact with cyanocobalamin or if the patient takes more than the designated dose, err on the side of caution and contact poison control.
Common Injection Regimens
A common regimen for B12 injections is to have one once a day for a week, then stretching it to once every other day, then once every three to four days, then eventually becoming once a month, with constant monitoring and testing for its success. Of course treatment will vary per individual, and need to be discussed with a doctor. Since supplementation of any kind should be approved by a doctor before use, make sure to tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or may become pregnant, if you are breastfeeding, or if you drink caffeine beverages or alcohol, smoke, or use recreational drugs. Also make sure to tell the doctor if you (or if your child is the patient) are taking any medications or herbal remedies, have an iron deficiency as well, or are being treated for any long term illnesses, infections, or diseases. Those who have Leber's disease (also known as Leber's Optic Atrophy or Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy), which progressively deteriorates vision, and those who are allergic to cobalt should not take B12 injections, so alert a doctor if this is an issue.
Potential Side Effects of B12 Injections
Potential side effects of B12 injections are: diarrhea, fever, headaches, nausea, and tenderness or soreness of the skin where the needle was used. If any part of the body (injection site or not) suddenly becomes swollen, a rash breaks out, or chest pains or breathing difficulties are experienced, contact a doctor immediately - there may be an allergic reaction to the nutrient.
Proper Care of Injections is Important
B12 is sensitive to heat and light, so the injection solution needs to be kept in a dark cool environment in order to remain absolutely effective. Once injections are begun, consistent use is also necessary for its efficiency, so contact your provider if an appointment or an at home application is missed.
After consulting your physician, you may be ready to consider B12 injections to supplement your dietary needs.
