Vitamin B12 Injections
These injections may help if you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed below. This list is not meant as a diagnosis and a doctor should be consulted if there are any concerns.
B-12 deficiency risk factors Both diabetes and some medications for type 2 diabetes can increase the risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Also, the following risk factors can increase the chance of developing vitamin B-12 deficiency:
• alcohol abuse
• smoking
• certain prescription medications, including antacids and some type 2 diabetes drugs
• having an endocrine-related autoimmune disorder, such as diabetes or a thyroid disorder
• eating a vegetarian or vegan diet
• certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease
• gastric bypass or the removal of parts of the stomach
• aging
Some common signs and symptoms include:
• decreased cognitive function, such as issues with memory or understanding
• fatigue
• lethargy
• constipation
• feeling faint
• depression or irritability
• headache
• difficulty maintaining balance
• sore, swollen tongue, which may be pale yellow or very red
• heart palpitations
• mouth ulcers
• paraesthesia (pins and needles)
• vision changesPeople with gastrointestinal issues
A gastrointestinal tract that does not function normally may inhibit vitamin B-12 release or absorption. For this reason, people with disorders such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease may be at higher risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Individuals who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery, including weight loss surgery, may have less of the cells necessary to secrete stomach acid and intrinsic factor. As a result, they may struggle to absorb B-12.Vitamin B-12 shots, rather than oral supplements, may be particularly helpful for people who have gastrointestinal issues because injections tend to bypass these areas.
Vegetarians and vegans
As vitamin B-12 is found mainly in fish, meat, eggs, and dairy, people who do not consume these foods are at risk of B-12 deficiency and may benefit from regular B-12 shots or other supplements.
Drug interactions
Vitamin B-12 may interact with certain medications. People must always inform their doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs they are taking before receiving a B-12 shot.
Allergy and medical conditions
Those who have allergies or medical conditions should always inform their doctor before receiving a B-12 shot.
Risks
Swollen ankles or feet are a potential side effect of vitamin B-12 shots, and require immediate medical attention.
There is no upper limit for the intake of vitamin B-12 because the risk of toxicity or overdose is extremely low. However, B-12 shots may have other side effects.
Mild side effects and potential risks, which should be referred to a doctor if they persist or worsen, include:
• pain, redness, or itching at the site of the injection
• mild diarrhea
• swelling sensation in the bodyMore serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention, include:
• muscle cramps
• irregular heartbeat
• unusual weakness or tiredness
• swelling of the ankles or feetSevere reactions are very rare but require emergency intervention. These include:
• itching and swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
• breathing difficulties
• severe dizziness
• sudden vision changes
• slurred speechSome commonly prescribed medications that may interact with B-12 include:
• Aspirin
• antibiotics
• H2 receptor antagonists
• metformin
• oral contraceptives
• proton pump inhibitorsExamples of allergies or conditions that may interact with B-12 shots include:
- allergy to cyanocobalamin or cobalt
• hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
• kidney disease
• polycythemia vera (a rare blood disorder)
• Leber’s disease (an eye disease)
• deficiencies in other nutrients, particularly folic acid and iron
- allergy to cyanocobalamin or cobalt