Vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) helps in the production of DNA, the molecules inside cells that carry genetic information, and the metabolism of cells. Poultry, meat, fish, and dairy products are food sources of vitamin B12. Additionally, some foods—like breakfast cereals—are fortified with vitamin B-12, and it is also available as an oral supplement. Vitamin B12 deficiency can be also treated with injections or nasal sprays of this vitamin. But these injections can also cause some negative effects on your body. Here we will discuss vitamin B12 side effects along with their treatment in detail.
Key Points
- The production of DNA, the molecules that carry genetic information inside of cells, and cell metabolism are all essential processes that are aided by vitamin B12 (cobalamin).
- Most people can get enough vitamin B12 from a balanced diet. But older individuals, vegetarians, and those with medical conditions may benefit from taking oral supplements. Consequently, they are regarded as safe when consumed in moderation.
- Its injections are used to treat severe vitamin B12 deficiency; however, they have a number of potential side effects.
- There have been some substances linked to decreased serum levels or vitamin B12 absorption. You might need to take vitamin B12 supplements if you use any of them.
- The effects of vitamin B12 injections typically last a week, but if you experience any symptoms that seem especially severe, we advise that you consult a doctor right away.
How your body uses Vitamin B12?
- Water-soluble vitamin B12 is absorbed in the intestines. It is used to produce DNA and red blood cells after it has been absorbed.
- Everyone needs vitamin B12, and most people get enough through diet. It’s crucial to understand the negative effects of taking too much, though.
- Unused vitamin B12 is kept in the liver for later use. However, taking supplements could result in individuals taking in more than their body requires.
Also read- Vitamin B12 Benefits: How Much Should You Take Per Day?
Is it safe to take Vitamin B12 Supplements?
- A balanced diet typically provides enough vitamin B12 for most people.
- Oral supplements, however, may be advantageous for older people, vegetarians, vegans, and those with medical conditions that limit their ability to absorb vitamin B12 from food.
- Additionally, pregnant or exclusively breastfeeding women who consume a vegetarian or vegan diet is also advised to take vitamin B12 supplements. So when you take them in moderation, they are considered safe.
What are the side effects of Vitamin B12?
Let’s move towards talking about the side effects of vitamin B12 when taken in excessive amounts.
For healthy individuals, the recommended doses of oral vitamin B12 are safe. Significant deficiencies are treated with injectable vitamin B12, which can have the following negative effects:
- Early-stage congestive heart failure
- Pulmonary edema
- Mild diarrhea
- Itchiness
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Vein thrombosis
- Swelling sensation
- Polycythemia vera (rare, slow-growing blood cancer)
Alert- An extremely rare but serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can be brought on by vitamin B12 too. This includes facial, tongue, and throat swelling in addition to breathing and swallowing challenges. After taking vitamin B12, if this happens, call a specialist immediately.
You should also read- What Are The Symptoms Of Low B12? How To Treat Them?
Another important thing about Vitamin B12!
Some substances have been associated with decreased serum levels or vitamin B12 absorption. If you take any of the following, vitamin B12 supplements may be necessary for you:
- Colchicine
- Metformin
- Chloramphenicol
- Vitamin C
- Aminosalicylic acid
- Proton pump inhibitors
You might need to take vitamin B12 separately from the aforementioned medications and supplements, such as one in the morning and one at night, in order to receive the recommended dosage of B12.
Beware- Vitamin B12 may be affected by folic acid supplements. If you take folic acid, be sure to let your doctor know. If you are allergic or sensitive to cobalt, vitamin B12, or any other ingredient, avoid taking vitamin B12 supplements.
What’s the correct dosage of Vitamin B12?
The following are the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for vitamin B12, as stated by the National Institutes of Health.
- 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for age of 14 years or older
- 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
- 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women
- If you are over 50, you should try to consume your RDA through B-12-rich foods or by taking a supplement with 25 to 100 mcg of the vitamin.
Have a look at- What age can take vitamin B12? How it provides benefits to health?
How long do B12 side effects last?
The effects of Vitamin B12 injections typically last for a week, but if you notice any unusually severe symptoms, we would suggest you call a doctor right away.
How are Vitamin B12 side effects treated?
If you experience bothersome side effects that persist even after you stop taking the supplements, consult your doctor. If at all possible, stay away from supplements and try to get your B12 from food sources. Food sources with vitamin B12 include:
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Liver
- Kidney
- Red meat
You may consult a nutritionist to know details about its daily intake and rich sources.
Bottom Line
If taking vitamin B12 causes any side effects, stop taking the supplement, and the symptoms should go away. The next step is to decide on dosage or how to get the vitamin B12 you require from food sources.
You can talk to your doctor about this. Book an appointment right now with a nutritionist through Marham to know about this.
FAQs
1- Who should not take B12 supplements?
In the following conditions, one should avoid taking Vitamin B-12 supplements.
- Low blood potassium levels
- Hereditary optic atrophy associated with Leber’s
- Atrophic gastritis, a stomach inflammation
- Past history of stomach removal
2- Can you take vitamin B12 without doctor?
Supplements are readily available over-the-counter, either alone in the form of cyanocobalamin or in combination with B-complex supplements. Without first consulting a physician, taking vitamin B12 supplements is not advised because they may interact with certain medications.
3- How long should you take vitamin B12 tablets?
When your blood levels of vitamin B12 are back to normal, you might be able to stop taking cyanocobalamin. If, however, your diet is deficient in vitamin B12 or you are unable to absorb enough of it from food, you may need to take it for the rest of your life.