How to Take Sublingual Vitamin B12

The benefits of vitamin B12 are plentiful, including increased cognitive function, improved immune response and increased energy. These benefits are best obtained when vitamin B12 is administered with an injection, but prescription requirements and exposure to needles make many people opt not to use vitamin B12 in this manner. Vitamin B12 taken sublingually is nearly as beneficial as when taken via an injection without the need for a prescription to be poked with a needle.

Things You'll Need

• Sublingual vitamin B12

Instructions

1. Locate a vitamin B12 supplement made with methylcobalam. Methylcobalam is a type of vitamin B12 that is used mainly by the nervous system, thereby providing the greatest benefits.

2. Allow the vitamin B12 tablet or solution to fully dissolve under the tongue. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes prior to taking the vitamin B12 supplement, and do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after taking it to ensure that the vitamin is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth and is not swallowed.

3. Use the supplement only as directed. Though vitamin B12 is water-soluble, it is possible to overdose on this vitamin when extreme amounts are taken.

4. Take supplements at least six hours apart, though a minimum of 10 hours apart is preferable. This allows full absorption and utilization of the vitamin B12 before receiving another dose.

References

• "Foundations and Adult Health Nursing;" Barbara Christensen; 2006

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish