Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in foods such as dairy products, eggs, meat and fish. Functions of B12 in the body include assisting with metabolism and the formation of red blood cells, and helping to maintain the central nervous system, according to MedlinePlus. Low levels of vitamin B12 may cause a loss of balance, anemia, and numbness and tingling in the extremities. Vitamin B12 tablets may help correct a deficiency, but side effects can occur if you take too much of a B12 supplement. Consult your physician before taking B12 supplements.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Oral vitamin B12 may cause gastrointestinal distress. Mild diarrhea that decreases with continued use of the vitamin supplement is a common side effect, according to Drugs.com. Additional side effects that may occur include upset stomach and nausea.
Neurological Symptoms
Some individuals may experience neurological symptoms when taking B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 helps maintain the nervous system and works to keep nerve cells healthy, so it has an effect on the nervous system. Decreased amounts of vitamin B12 may cause neurological symptoms, and taking supplemental B12 may cause neurological side effects such as a headache, dizziness and weakness. Additional neurological symptoms include numbness and tingling and a fever, according to Drugs.com.
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Taking vitamin B12 tablets may cause musculoskeletal symptoms such as joint pain similar to arthritis and pain in the back. Some individuals may experience muscular pain. The pain may occur in one muscle or several.
Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to vitamin B12 supplements. Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction include swelling of the airway, face, tongue or lips; hives; difficulty breathing; and an increased heart rate. Individuals who experience any of these symptoms need to seek emergency medical attention to decrease the possibility of life threatening complications from the allergy. People allergic to cobalt should not take synthetic vitamin B12 because of a possible allergic reaction.
Optic Nerve Damage
Leber's disease is an inherited condition that affects males in early adulthood, and may lead to the development of optic atrophy and blindness. Individuals with Leber's disease who take supplemental doses of vitamin B12 have an increased risk of developing optic nerve damage or blindness, according to Drugs.com. Those with Leber's disease should not take the supplements.
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