B12 is an essential, water-soluble vitamin found in foods such as dairy, calf liver, shellfish and eggs. Once ingested, B12 is separated from the protein in food and binds to a substance in the stomach known as the intrinsic factor, which facilitates the absorption of B12 from the gastrointestinal tract. In some people, B12 absorption is impaired because this intrinsic factor is missing; this condition is known as pernicious anemia. Strict vegetarians are also at risk for a B12 deficiency. In order to obtain adequate B12, these individuals may be required to have regular injections of B12.
Step 1
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Clean the top of the B12 vial with a cotton soaked in alcohol. Remove the needle cover and inspect the syringe to ensure the needle is intact.
Step 2
Hold the B12 vial in one hand. With the needle pointed down, place the needle into the B12 vial and push on the plunger to inject the air from the syringe into the vial.
Step 3
With the needle still in the vial, invert the vial and pull back on the plunger to fill the syringe to the desired level.
Step 4
Withdraw the needle from the vial. Hold the filled syringe upright and, with one finger, tap the side of the syringe to allow any bubbles formed in the syringe to dissipate. Recap the needle and place the syringe on a clean, flat surface.
Step 5
Clean the injection site with an alcohol-soaked cotton ball and allow the alcohol to dry; failure to do so may cause mild stinging at the injection site.
Step 6
Spread the skin at the injection site with the nondominant hand; with the dominant hand, hold the syringe as if you are holding a pen and with a quick but controlled motion aim the needle toward the injection site and into the muscle.
Step 7
Pull back slightly on the plunger and inspect the syringe for blood. If no blood is present, push the plunger until all the B12 is administered . If there is blood present, withdraw the needle and attempt the injection at another site.
Step 8
Withdraw the needle quickly and dispose of it in a sharps receptacle.
Step 9
Apply a dry cotton ball onto the injection site and hold it against the skin firmly for 1 minute. Remove the cotton ball and apply a small bandage to the site.
Tips and Warnings
- Discuss the location of the injection site with your health care professional before attempting to perform this procedure. Determine the amount of B12 to be administered as well as the frequency of dosing with your doctor. Minor discomfort at the injection site is common after the procedure, but this should resolve on its own.
- Contact your health care provider if a rash, swelling or allergic reaction develops after the injection.
Things You'll Need
- B12
- Syringe
- Cotton swabs
- Rubbing alcohol
- Bandage
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