Orally-swallowed B12 tablets are just as effective as injections in the vast majority of patients, except those with digestive issues that may hamper absorption. However, the rate at which the B12 is released can be a little slower meaning that if you need B12 quickly, injections will be the better option.
One study used a daily oral dosage of 2,000 mcg, and the other an oral dosage of 1,000 mcg daily for 10 days, then weekly for four weeks, then monthly for life. In both studies, high-dose oral B12 was as effective as intramuscular injection at achieving neurologic and hematologic response.
For prevention and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency, cyanocobalamin in chewable, sublingual, or liquid forms (rather than in a multivitamin) is best under most circumstances.
Vitamin injections provide full absorption of nutrients
Vitamins taken orally must be digested before benefiting your body, but a significant portion of the pill's nutrients is lost during the digestive process. This means you might have to take much more than the recommended daily intake to see results.
This helps to reduce symptoms such as tiredness and lack of energy. When will I feel better? Hydroxocobalamin starts to work straight away. However, it may take a few days or weeks before your vitamin B12 levels and symptoms (such as extreme tiredness or lack of energy) start to improve.
While it might seem like a 1000 micrograms (mcg) B12 shot is equal to a 1,000 mcg B12 supplement, it's not that simple. Your body absorbs these B12 formulations differently, so you can't simply make B12 pills equal a shot dosage.
If your vitamin B12 deficiency is not caused by a lack of vitamin B12 in your diet, you'll usually need to have an injection of hydroxocobalamin every 2 to 3 months for the rest of your life.
It may take a few weeks before your vitamin B12 levels and symptoms (such as extreme tiredness or lack of energy) start to improve. If you have hydroxocobalamin injections to boost your vitamin B12 levels at the start of treatment, the cyanocobalamin tablets may start to work within a few days.
There's no solid proof that vitamin B-12 shots, also called injections, help you lose weight. Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble B complex vitamin. It's found naturally in many foods, such as meat, fish and dairy products. Vitamin B-12 is added to some foods and is available as a dietary supplement.
How to raise your B12 levels fast. The most common way to treat B12 deficiencies is by adjusting your diet. If this is unsuccessful, vitamin supplements may be recommended. If you're looking to boost the amount of vitamin B12 in your diet, you should eat more animal products, like meat, seafood, dairy and eggs.
Methylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin is the most bio-available type of Vitamin B12 which means the body absorbs it more easily. Naturally occurring, it is found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, milk and eggs so Methylcobalamin B12 is readily available in many people's daily diets.
Evidence-Based Answer
For increasing vitamin B12 levels, oral supplementation at 2,000 mcg per day is more effective than intramuscular supplementation at 1,000 mcg per day; however, 1,000 mcg per day orally is equivalent to 1,000 mcg per day intramuscularly.
As stated above, the tablets have been shown to be just as effective as the injections at treating low B12. Anyone who is newly diagnosed with low B12 will still have the loading dose. The oral treatment is for patients who are on maintenance B12.
B12 injections work quickly; they are the most effective way for your body to absorb Vitamin B12. Within 48 to 72 hours, your body will begin to make new red blood cells. For mild deficiencies, you may need two to three injections over several weeks to notice peak impact.
FOR YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING, AS WELL AS THE LONGEVITY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF YOUR TREATMENT, PLEASE FOLLOW THE AFTERCARE ADVICE FULLY, Avoid alcohol for 48 hours after your treatment. Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours after your treatment.
They're ideal for those who may be experiencing B-12 deficiency and can help treat symptoms by combating them head-on. Additionally, B-12 has been known to help those suffering from fatigue.
B12 Shots Can Make People Feel Like They've Been “Born Again.” Here's Why. Experts say the vitamin can boost mood, energy, memory and more in folks who are deficient. B12 is a nutrient needed to form red blood cells, DNA, and brain and nerve cells.
Pain/redness at the injection site, mild diarrhea, itching, or a feeling of swelling all over the body may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To see how well it's working, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms such as tiredness and lack of energy. They will also give you regular blood tests to monitor the vitamin B12 levels in your blood.
The cost of a B12 shot can vary based on your insurance. Typically, they cost about $50-80.
B12 Injections: How Often? Generally, when treating a B-12 deficiency, you'll get a 1,000-microgram shot every day or two for the first week (2). After that, you may shift to once-a-week injections for one to two months, and then to monthly injections.
Bananas are a cheap, healthy, and nutrient-dense fruit that can easily become a part of every individual's diet. It is one of the best fruits rich in vitamin B12.