Do vitamin B12 shots work?

Yes, B12 shots work effectively to correct a vitamin B12 deficiency, rapidly restoring levels and alleviating symptoms like fatigue, but they offer little proven benefit for energy or weight loss in people who already have sufficient B12 levels, with oral supplements often being just as good if absorption isn't an issue. Shots are highly effective because they bypass the digestive system, delivering B12 directly into the bloodstream for fast absorption, making them ideal for those with absorption problems or severe deficiency.

How effective is a B12 injection?

B12 shots are highly effective for treating a diagnosed vitamin B12 deficiency, delivering 100% absorption directly into the bloodstream to quickly correct low levels, boost energy, improve mood, and support nerve/red blood cell health. For people with normal B12 levels, there's little evidence they provide extra benefits like significant weight loss or energy boosts, and oral supplements are often just as effective if absorption isn't an issue.
 

Why are doctors stopping B12 injections?

Coronavirus has made it necessary to move patients on B12 injections to oral treatment. Reason: RISK REDUCTION in terms of limiting your movement outside your home and contact with our staff and nurses. Nationally all NHS organisations will be stopping injections during this difficult time.

Which vitamin B12 is good for pregnancy?

Intramuscular hydroxocobalamin and oral cyanocobalamin are treatment options for the management of clinically relevant vitamin B12 deficiency during pregnancy.

Is vitamin B12 good for hemorrhoids?

An increase of one unit in vitamin B12 was associated with a 1.04% decrease in hemorrhoid occurrence. Conclusion: This study suggests that evaluating homocysteine, copper, folate, and vitamin B12 levels may be valuable in patients with or at risk of hemorrhoidal disease.

The BEST & WORST Forms of Vitamin B12

What are the warning signs of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Warning signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency include extreme fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, neurological issues like pins and needles or numbness, mood changes (depression, irritability), cognitive problems (brain fog, memory loss), a sore red tongue (glossitis), mouth ulcers, and shortness of breath, often due to megaloblastic anemia. These symptoms develop slowly, so prompt medical attention with a blood test is crucial for diagnosis and to prevent irreversible nerve damage. 

How long do B12 injections last?

B12 injection duration varies, but effects often last 1-2 weeks for initial treatment, potentially extending to monthly or even 2-3 months for maintenance, depending on your deficiency level, absorption, lifestyle, and the B12 form used (like hydroxocobalamin lasts longer). Initially, you might get weekly shots to build stores, then transition to less frequent shots as levels stabilize, with the liver storing significant amounts for later use. 

How many B12 pills equal a shot?

Shots of vitamin B12 are often given in doses of 1,000 mcg/mL, while vitamin B12 pills often come in capsules, tablets, or soft gels of 50 to 5,000 mcg. While it might seem like simple math — a 1000 micrograms (mcg) B12 shot is equal to a 1,000 mcg B12 supplement — it's not that simple.

What are the signs of B12 toxicity?

While generally considered safe, too much vitamin B12 (often from supplements) can cause headaches, nausea, diarrhea, tingling, anxiety, insomnia, acne, and fatigue; severe reactions, though rare, might involve heart palpitations or even anaphylaxis, with symptoms often resolving after stopping supplementation, though high levels can sometimes point to underlying issues.
 

What are the mental symptoms of B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause significant mental and psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety, irritability, confusion, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating, ranging from mild to severe. More serious symptoms can involve psychosis, hallucinations, delusions, delirium, apathy, and even dementia-like states, affecting mood, cognition, and perception. These neuropsychiatric symptoms can sometimes appear before or without typical physical signs like anemia. 

What are signs you need a B12 shot?

You know you might need B12 injections if you have symptoms like extreme fatigue, tingling/numbness (pins and needles) in hands/feet, a sore red tongue, memory issues, depression, balance problems, or pale skin, often accompanied by a confirmed B12 deficiency via blood test, especially if you have absorption issues from conditions like Crohn's/celiac, follow a vegan diet, or are an older adult. A doctor diagnoses this through symptoms and blood tests, as many signs overlap with other conditions. 

What happens when a B12 shot wears off?

Your body will often send warning signs when your B12 levels start to drop again. If you've had a shot and start feeling these symptoms again after a few weeks, it could mean the effects are wearing off. Common signs include: Fatigue or low energy: You may feel tired, even after sleeping well.

Is it better to get B12 shots or pills?

B12 shots are generally better for people with absorption issues (like digestive diseases, older adults, or certain meds) because they go straight to the bloodstream, offering faster, guaranteed delivery, while for most others without issues, high-dose oral pills (especially sublingual/under-the-tongue) can be just as effective and cheaper/more convenient, but shots are superior for rapid correction or severe deficiency. The best choice depends on your specific health needs, so consult a doctor.
 

What are the two main causes of B12 deficiency?

Lack of vitamin B12 in your diet: People who don't eat enough foods that have vitamin B12 or don't eat foods fortified with B12 can develop a deficiency. Gastritis: Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, and it's a common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency.

What is the skinny shot for B12?

The Skinny Shot is a versatile treatment designed to complement your weight loss and wellness journey by addressing several key aspects of health: Boosting Energy Levels: Packed with B12 and Taurine, this injection provides a natural energy boost, helping you stay motivated and active throughout the day.

How much do B12 injections typically cost?

Vitamin B12 injections typically cost $20 to $80 per shot at clinics, but prices vary based on location, provider (doctor vs. spa), dosage, and if you buy packages. While professional injections are pricier, you can save significantly by getting a prescription and using coupons for the medication itself, sometimes for just a few dollars, with pharmacies like GoodRx offering discounts on generic vials. 

Is one vitamin B12 injection enough?

Intramuscular vitamin B12 is the best treatment for those with deficiency, poor absorption or forget to take supplements. Hydroxocobalamin is retained longest in the body, a dose of 1mg every 2-3 months will keep your stores topped up. Please note, these doses will not adequately treat a diagnosed deficiency.

How much B12 for neuropathy?

For neuropathy, B12 doses are much higher than the daily need, often starting with intensive injections (like 1000 mcg daily for 5 days) or high-dose oral supplements (1000-2000 mcg daily/weekly), depending on the cause (deficiency vs. poor absorption), with a doctor guiding treatment for potential nerve repair, but doses like 1000 mcg aren't harmful, though effectiveness varies. 

What are early signs of B12 deficiency?

Early B12 deficiency signs often include fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath, headaches, and a sore, smooth tongue, but can also manifest as neurological issues like tingling (pins and needles) and memory problems, alongside mood changes (depression, irritability). Because symptoms develop slowly and mimic other conditions, prompt medical evaluation with a blood test is crucial for proper diagnosis and to prevent potentially irreversible nerve damage, notes the NHS, the Cleveland Clinic, and WebMD. 

What should you not do after a B12 shot?

After a B12 injection, you should avoid rubbing the site, taking hot baths/saunas, and heavy exercise for 24-48 hours to prevent irritation and infection; also, limit alcohol as it hinders absorption, and drink plenty of water to help your body use the vitamin. For best results, stay hydrated, rest, and contact your provider if you have severe reactions like rash or difficulty breathing, which could signal an allergic reaction.
 

Can B12 shots help with anxiety?

B12 injections can help replenish these levels, creating a more balanced emotional state. Many individuals who struggle with stress and anxiety have found that B12 supplementation helps them manage their emotions more effectively and feel calmer throughout the day.

What are the facial signs of B12 deficiency?

Cutaneous manifestations associated with vitamin B12 deficiency are skin hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair changes. A diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency is often overlooked in its early stages because these signs are not specific to vitamin B12 deficiency alone.

What food is highest in B12?

The foods highest in Vitamin B12 are organ meats (like liver and kidney) and shellfish (especially clams), offering thousands of percent of the daily value in small servings, with fortified cereals, dairy, fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), and eggs also being excellent sources. For vegans, fortified foods like nutritional yeast and plant milks are key, as B12 is naturally found in animal products.
 

Can B12 affect sleep?

Yes, Vitamin B12 significantly affects sleep by influencing energy, mood, and your internal clock (circadian rhythm); low levels can cause insomnia and fatigue, while supplementation can help regulate sleep, but high doses might even promote wakefulness by advancing sleep onset. It's crucial for energy production and neurotransmitter balance, meaning deficiencies disrupt sleep, but adequate levels support better quality rest and waking up refreshed.