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Public interest in vitamin B12 has skyrocketed in the past few years. As more information emerges about the dangers of B12 deficiencies, physicians and scientists propose concentrated doses of vitamin B12 as a remedy. These doses are available either in pill form or as injectable shots. Some gurus herald B12 shots as cure-alls, but there's more to know before you sit down for your first injection.

What’s in a B12 Shot?

B12 shots are usually made of cyanocobalamin, a synthetic form of the vitamin. Some B12 shots may also contain hydroxocobalamin, another synthetic form. Both types are inactive, meaning the body must convert the injection into another form to make use of it. There are a few shots on the market that contain methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin, the active and natural forms of B12, but these really only work when taken or created together. In addition, there isn't much evidence of their effectiveness in a supplement or injectable form.

What to Know If You're Considering B12 Shots

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Why Are B12 Shots Useful?

B12 shots are concentrated forms of the vitamin that the body uses to create red blood cells and DNA. This important nutrient also helps the body maintain the central nervous system. Many people do not consume or absorb enough vitamin B12 — people eating plant-based diets, for example. Injections can quickly resolve this problem and prevent issues like anemia.

B12 Shots Red Blood Cells Design Cells / Getty Images

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What Are the Signs of a B12 Deficiency?

A B12 deficiency often presents with symptoms such as neurological problems, decreased motor function, and problems with balance. One of the most common signs of low B12 levels is pernicious anemia. This condition occurs in people who have trouble absorbing B12, which causes a low red blood cell count. In adults, some of the symptoms include irritability, motor problems that lead to difficulty walking and eating, depression, brain fog, mouth ulcers, weight loss, and digestive problems. In infants and young children, pernicious anemia and low B12 can cause developmental problems.

Neurological B12 Absorbption Pernicious Anemia Nastasic / Getty Images

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Who Should Get a B12 Shot?

Some B12 utilization disorders are hereditary, so people with a family history of low B12 levels or poor absorption should be tested for deficiencies. Many adults with pernicious anemia or a related disorder might consider B12 shots, at least initially, to quickly increase their levels of the nutrient and prevent the progression of symptoms. People who follow a vegan diet may need to get B12 shots since the vitamin is largely nonexistent in plants and plant-based products unless deliberately added. However, vegans who don't have difficulty absorbing the vitamin can take an oral supplement instead. Older adults often experience B12 deficiency as they age, so doctors may recommend injections.

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Who Shouldn't Get a B12 Shot?

Most people with a B12 deficiency will benefit from a shot. The only people who shouldn’t get a B12 shot are those who aren’t deficient and don’t need one. Parents considering them for their child, pregnant women, and people who consume alcohol, should consult a doctor before starting B12 injections. People who take medication should also talk to their physician before having a B12 shot, to ensure these drugs don’t interact poorly or negate the effects of the shot.

Shouldn't Get B12 Shot Caution damircudic / Getty Images

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Where Do You Go to Get B12 Shots?

A physician prescribes B12 shots. Once you meet with your physician and have a prescription, you can schedule an appointment at a clinic or at a doctor’s office. You may also be able to find B12 kits and administer your own injections, although this isn’t recommended for most people.

B12 Shots Where CVS Self-Administer

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How Often Do You Have to Get B12 Shots?

People with serious, chronic, or hereditary B12 deficiencies may receive shots over the course of their lifetime. People with anemia as a result of a B12 deficiency receive consecutive shots for 10 days and monthly shots after that, continuing for the rest of their lives. Consult with your physician to find the best schedule for you.

B12 Shots Frequency Daily Monthly Kwangmoozaa / Getty Images

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Are There Any Side Effects?

Most people who receive B12 injections don’t experience any adverse effects. Some people, however, develop diarrhea or feel swollen after the shot. Problems like these are often short-lived and resolve without professional help. Other, more unusual symptoms include muscle weakness, frequent irritation, and extreme thirst.

Side Effects B12 Shots Rare Demkat / Getty Images

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What Other Ways Can You Get B12?

Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in animal-based products and this is often the best, most efficient source. B12-rich foods include eggs, meat, fish, poultry, milk, and cheese. Some foods are fortified with B12 even if the food doesn’t normally contain it. There are also multivitamins that contain numerous vitamins, including B12.

B12 Foods Animal Products Multivitamins bit245 / Getty Images

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B12 Shots vs Supplements

B12 shots are often just as effective as supplements. Some research has found supplements in the form of prescription pills to be more affordable, and people with an aversion to needles may prefer to receive their doses as pills. On the other hand, pills must be taken more frequently than a monthly shot, so some people may prefer the latter to remembering to take a supplement. Plus, people who have digestive issues that reduce the absorption of vitamin B12 may get more benefits from an injection.

What to Know If You're Considering B12 Shots

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This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.