How Safe Is a B12 Shot?
Vitamin B12 shots are commonly given to patients who have a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 has been touted as effective tool in treating the symptoms of digestive problems, tinnitus and even autism.
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Background on vitamin B12
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Vitamin B12 is an everyday vitamin our bodies need in order to live. It is commonly found in fish, shellfish, meat and dairy products. It is also needed to make our DNA - the genetic material found in the cells of all living things.
Who needs B12 shots?
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The normal human body can store at least a two-year supply of vitamin B12 in the liver, so nutritional deficiencies are uncommon. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), individuals who may need supplemental vitamin B12 include: those with pernicious anemia, which damages the body's ability to process the vitamin; those who have undergone bariatric weight-loss or other gastrointestinal surgery; and strict vegetarians or vegans.
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Other claimed benefits
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B12 may be promoted for use by the average person to increase energy, improve cardiac health and brain function, decrease stress and even beautify skin. According to both NIH and MayoClinic.com, these benefits have not been scientifically proven.
Common side effects
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The following potential side effects of B12 shots are common. According to health care provider, Kaiser Permanente, they include:
* Mild diarrhea
* Upset stomach
* Nausea
* A feeling of pain and warmth at the injection site
* A feeling of being swollen over the entire body
* Headache
* Joint pain
Cost
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A single B12 shot from your doctor will cost in the range of $25 to $35. If you don't mind giving the shots to yourself, you can get a prescription from your doctor and pay less per injection.
Warnings
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Although severe allergic reactions to B12 shots have been reported, they are quite rare, according to MayoClinic.com. While B12 can have negative drug interactions, they are generally considered safe for patients under a doctor's care to ensure there are no contraindications.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Melissa Wiese
