Vitamin B12 is an important component of a healthy diet, contributing to the functioning of the brain, nerves and blood cells. While everyone requires this vitamin for healthy functioning, pregnant women and nursing mothers require somewhat more than average.Vitamin B12 is found naturally in many foods, including fish, seafood, liver, beef and dairy products and is added as a supplement to foods like cereals, to help ensure proper nutrition.
The vitamin, which may also be produced in the laboratory, is usually injected into the muscle of the thigh, upper arm or hip when necessary. Dosage and frequency of injections varies depending on the patient's condition.
Reasons for Vitamin B12 Injections
There are many reasons vitamin B12 injections may be prescribed or recommended. In some cases, patients may be deficient in the vitamin and suffering symptoms, while in others, B12 may be considered potentially helpful in preventing or treating certain conditions.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency results in symptoms common to a variety of disorders, so blood work and other diagnostic testing may be necessary to rule out other problems. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- Anemia
- Intestinal disorders and weight loss
- Fatigue, weakness, lightheadedness
- Memory loss or confusion
- Depression or dementia
- Rapid heartbeat and respiration
- Mouth or tongue soreness or bleeding
- Excessive bruising
Injections are the most effective means of administration of vitamin B12 since they do not depend on the body's ability to absorb the substance through the gastrointestinal tract. Although vitamin B12 injections can increase energy and improve quality of life for individuals with a deficiency, patients whose vitamin B12 levels are normal will not have improved health from this treatment.