B12 IM
B12 IM also known as vitamin B12 booster shots, are a powerful way to boost your energy, support metabolism, and promote overall health. Vitamin B12, a crucial nutrient for your body, plays a vital role in maintaining red blood cells, nerve function, and DNA synthesis. B12 injections are particularly popular for individuals with B12 deficiencies, those following vegan or vegetarian diets, or anyone seeking a natural energy lift.
Overview of B12 IM
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the optimal functioning of our bodies. It helps maintain nerve and blood cell health, brain function, and red blood cell production. Unfortunately, some individuals struggle to get enough vitamin B12 from their diet, especially those following a vegan or plant-based diet, as animal-based foods are the primary dietary sources of this essential nutrient. Vitamin B12 injections offer a solution to address this deficiency and restore B12 levels, a necessity for those following a vegan or plant-based diet.
Pernicious anaemia, a condition that impairs the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12, is another reason why individuals might require B12 injections. There are two types of vitamin B12 injections available: hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin, which can be helpful for those who don’t get enough B12 from fortified foods. Hydroxocobalamin is the preferred type of vitamin B12 injection in the UK, especially for those at risk of deficiency due to a plant-based diet.
Vitamin B12 injections are typically advised for those at risk of deficiency due to inadequate dietary sources or those who have already experienced severe deficiency. In many cases, oral supplements may be just as effective as injections for B12 dietary deficiency. Yet, it is advisable to seek a doctor’s advice to establish the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Pro and Con
Pros:
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Rapid results
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Effective for severe deficiency
Cons:
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May cause side effects, including allergic reactions
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Requires medical supervision
High-potency B12 injections offer a quick and effective solution for individuals with severe vitamin B12 deficiency, providing a higher concentration or dosage than standard injections. These injections are particularly beneficial for those whose bodies have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 or have undergone gastric surgery. However, these high-potency injections may lead to side effects like headaches, nausea, and dizziness, making it necessary to seek a doctor’s advice before commencing this treatment.
On the other hand, standard B12 injections are more suitable for mild deficiency cases, as they have fewer side effects and provide a more gradual increase in B12 levels. Choosing between high-potency and standard B12 injections depends on the severity of your deficiency and individual needs. Always consult with a medical professional to determine the best course of action for your situation.
High-potency B12 injections offer rapid results and are effective in treating severe deficiency cases, providing benefits such as increased energy levels, enhanced memory and cognitive function, and prevention of heart disease. However, they may cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness, and require medical supervision to ensure proper usage.
Weighing potential benefits against risks, such as weight loss, is a necessary step before opting for high-potency B12 injections.
Standard B12 injections are suitable for mild deficiency and have fewer side effects than high-potency injections. They provide a more gradual increase in B12 levels, helping maintain optimal levels and prevent further complications. However, standard injections may take longer to show results compared to high-potency injections.
Consulting a healthcare professional to decide on the most suitable treatment is crucial, considering your needs, deficiency severity, and any existing health conditions.
Contra-Indications:
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Allergy to any of the product ingredients
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Pregnancy or breastfeeding
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Liver or kidney disease
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When under close medical supervision at the hospital
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Active cancer/undergoing chemotherapy
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prone to keloid scarring
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Have been told you have low levels of potassium
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Have irregular or fast heartbeat
Some commonly prescribed medications that may interact with B12 include:​
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Aspirin
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Antibiotics
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H2 receptor antagonists
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Metformin
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Oral contraceptives
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Proton pump inhibitors​​
Identifying Vitamin B12 deficiency
Examples of allergies or conditions that may interact with B12 shots include:​
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Allergy to cyanocobalamin or cobalt
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Hypokalemia (low pottasiom levels)
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Kidney Disease
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Polycythemia vera (a rare blood disorder)
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Leber's disease (an eye disease)
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Deficiency in other nutrients, particularly folic acid and iron
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
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Extreme tiredness
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Depression
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Nerve damage
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Anemia
If you suspect a deficiency, consulting a doctor or healthcare professional is advisable to discuss your concerns, undergo tests to confirm the deficiency, and find the most appropriate treatment. Additionally, health stores can be a source of supplements and vitamins to support your well-being.
Potential complications of vitamin B12 deficiency may include:
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Neurological issues
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Temporary infertility
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Heart conditions
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Pregnancy complications and congenital disabilities
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Heart failure in adults with severe anaemia
It is essential to identify and address vitamin B12 deficiency as early as possible to minimize the risk of these complications and maintain overall health.
Recognizing the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency and seeking medical advice can facilitate receiving the necessary treatment to restore your B12 levels and uphold your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What do vitamin B12 injections do for you?
Vitamin B12 shots are injections prescribed by a doctor to treat B12 deficiency. They can help increase energy levels and brain function, boost mood, and aid metabolism and weight loss while lowering the risk of serious health issues.
How quickly do you feel better after B12 injections?
Vitamin B12 injections start to take effect within two to three days, with maximum benefits taking a few weeks to become apparent. Symptoms such as extreme tiredness and lack of energy can start to improve during this time period.
Can I get B12 injections on NHS?
Hydroxocobalamin injections are available on the NHS every three months. However, cyanocobalamin injections are not routinely available on the NHS and replacement tablets of vitamin B12 will be cyanocobalamin instead.
What are signs you need B12 shots?
Signs that you need a B12 shot include extreme tiredness, lack of energy, pins and needles, a sore and red tongue, mouth ulcers, muscle weakness, disturbed vision, and psychological problems.
Can I take oral vitamin B12 supplements instead of injections?
Oral vitamin B12 supplements are an effective option for treating dietary deficiency of B12.