Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia are both considered to be life-long and chronic illnesses without a cure. As a result, if you have either illness, you need to find methods for managing your symptoms and regaining your personal functionality. According to Fighting Fatigue, addressing nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin B12 deficiency may have a beneficial impact on symptoms. Injections of vitamin B12 for fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue are an off-label use, according to Drugs.com, but they may be beneficial depending on your individual health needs.
Theories/Speculation
According to Fighting Fatigue, vitamin B12 deficiency is frequently present in individuals who have chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia. However, a cause-and-effect correlation has not been definitively established. The Linus Pauling Institute reports that B12 deficiency can result in numbness, tingling and lethargy in the limbs, as well as elevated homocysteine levels that can deplete cardiovascular strength. By addressing deficiencies, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue sufferers may experience higher energy levels and physical functionality.
Dosages
Recommended dosages vary from person to person, and it is best to get a baseline B12 measurement to establish levels of deficiency. Drugs.com notes that a concurrent iron deficiency can influence recommended dosage levels, while the Linus Pauling Institute reports that dosages of up to 1 g daily may be prescribed.
Benefits
The benefits of vitamin B12 injections include lowered cardiovascular risk profiles, improvement in neurological function and improved white blood cell function, according to Fighting Fatigue.
Side Effects
Vitamin B12 injections are not fully absorbed by the body, notes the Linus Pauling Institute, making it difficult to amass toxic levels in the body. There is no official upper limit for injection size due to the low toxicity risk, though Drugs.com notes that minor side effects may include headache, dizziness and irritation at the injection site. In rare cases, an allergic reaction may occur, and Drugs.com reports that difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest or hives are a sign to seek immediate medical attention.
Considerations
Vitamin B12 injections are the most beneficial where there is a clear deficiency. The Linus Pauling Institute notes that other medications, such as acid reflux pills, cholesterol medications, diabetes treatments and proton pump inhibitors can all reduce the effectiveness of vitamin B12 injections. If you are using these medications or show no deficiency in vitamin B12, injections may not be an effective choice for you.
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