Vitamin B12 Injections

A quick intramuscular injection for people with low or borderline B12.

What it treats

Confirmed low or borderline B12
Vegan and vegetarian diets
Absorption problems after gastric surgery
Fatigue where B12 has been shown to be low
Maintenance between GP reviews

How it works

B12 is injected into the muscle of the upper arm, where it is absorbed steadily and enters the bloodstream without needing the gut to take it up. That matters for anyone whose absorption is impaired, which is the main reason injections exist rather than tablets. The appointment is short and needs no preparation.

Typical course

Monthly or every three months depending on your levels and the reason.

Who it is not suitable for

Not given if you have a cobalt or cobalamin allergy, or if you have Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy. If you have never had your levels checked, we will test before we start rather than after.

Every treatment here is assessed at consultation first. This list covers the common reasons we would not proceed, and it is not exhaustive. Bring your medication list and tell us about anything you are being treated for.

Questions people ask

Should I not get this from my GP?

If you have pernicious anaemia or a diagnosed deficiency, yes, and your GP should be managing it on the NHS. We are useful for people who are borderline, who have run out of NHS provision, or who want a top up alongside a vegan diet.

Will it give me energy?

Only if you are actually low. B12 is not a stimulant. Where levels are normal, the honest expectation is that you will feel no different.

How often is safe?

B12 is water soluble and excess is excreted, so the safety margin is wide. Even so, monthly is plenty for most people and more often is not better.

Related treatments

All Wellness & IV

Looking for something else?

Or just ask

If it is not on the menu, or you are not sure what to call it, say so in your own words and the team will answer. Ask about this treatment.