Vitamin B12 is necessary for cell reproduction, proper growth, blood formation and the synthesis of myelin and protein. It also assists DNA and RNA production and helps maintain the health of nerve cells. When administered via injection, cyanocobalamin, a synthetic form of B12, is quickly absorbed by the body and transported to the liver and other tissues to correct or prevent deficiency.
Treatment of Deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin B12 may occur due to malabsorption associated with a variety of disorders and conditions, including pernicious anemia, infestation of fish tapeworm, folic acid deficiency, partial or total gastrectomy, gluten enteropathy, bowel cancer, pancreatic cancer and the use of some drugs.
Vitamin B12 is most commonly used to treat pernicious anemia, a dangerous disorder of deficiency that causes weakness, numbness, fatigue and impaired cognition. Because people with pernicious anemia are often unable to properly absorb B12, they therefore require continuous supplementation. Injections are preferred to oral B12 because they offer a more flexible and less frequent dosing schedule.
Supplementation
Certain conditions and health problems, such as pregnancy, hemolytic anemia, kidney and liver disease, thyrotoxicosis and hemorrhage may lead to a higher than normal requirement for vitamin B12. B12 shots offer a rapid means of meeting this increased requirement, although Drugs.com states that oral supplementation of the vitamin is generally sufficient in most cases. Other people who have increased risk of deficiency and thus may need supplementation include vegans, those with eating disorders and the elderly.
Schilling Test
The Schilling test is designed to measure the absorption rate of B12 by the body. Two injections of vitamin B12 are given two to six hours apart, and then urine testing determines the level of B12 absorption. The test can also rule out disorders of absorption caused by a lack of intrinsic factor in the stomach.
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