Vitamin B12 supplements are mainly used to treat vitamin B12 deficiencies disorders. Vitamin B12 is a B-complex vitamin that is naturally present in only animal foods, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, milk, shellfish and dairy products. Vitamin B12 is also added to fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals. Strict vegetarians may obtain vitamin B12 from fortified foods and B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 may cause adverse side effects in some patients.
Immunological
Vitamin B12 supplements may cause patients allergic to cobalt and other ingredients used to make the supplements to develop severe allergic reactions. Signs and symptoms of allergic reactions include difficulties breathing, wheezing, unusual hoarseness, rash, hive, throat tightness, swelling of the tongue, face, lips and eyelids, diarrhea and vomiting. Patients with a history of allergy to vitamin supplements should consult the doctor before taking vitamin B12 supplements. Patients who experience hypersensitivity reactions after taking B12 supplements should seek immediate medical attention to avoid respiratory distress.
Cardiovascular
Vitamin B12 supplements may cause blood clots and heart failure. Patients with a history of cardiovascular problems should avoid B12 supplements. Blood clots develop in the lower extremities and may dislodge and travel to the heart and brain, causing heart attack and stroke. B12 supplements may cause the heart to stop functioning normally, leading to decreased transport of oxygenated blood to body organs. Patients with heart failure often experience problems breathing due to accumulation of fluids in the lungs, sudden weight gain, edema, fatigue and shortness of breath.
Hematological Problems
Vitamin B12 supplements may also cause polycythemia vera, a blood disorder in which the bone marrow makes too many red blood cells and other blood cells. Symptoms of polycythemia include dizziness, red coloring on the body, problems breathing while lying down, headache, shortness of breath and itching.
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