
Vitamin B12 injections are often used to treat or prevent vitamin B12 deficiency.
This deficiency can lead to various symptoms and health issues, including:
Anemia: Vitamin B12 is crucial for the production of red blood cells. Deficiency can lead to a condition called megaloblastic anemia, where red blood cells are larger than normal and don't function properly.
Neurological problems: Vitamin B12 plays a role in maintaining the health of the nervous system. Deficiency can cause symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, memory problems, and even mood changes or depression.
Fatigue: One of the common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency is fatigue and weakness.
Cognitive decline: Some studies suggest that low levels of vitamin B12 may be associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia in older adults.
People who may benefit from B12 injections include those with pernicious anemia (a condition where the body can't absorb enough vitamin B12 from food), individuals with gastrointestinal disorders that affect absorption such as taking Proton pump inhibitors, strict vegetarians or vegans who don't consume enough B12-rich foods, and those who have undergone certain surgeries that affect nutrient absorption.