Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is one of the eight B-complex vitamins. B12 is important for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production and maintenance of a healthy immune system. B12 is naturally found in animal products such as eggs, fish, red meat, shellfish and milk. B12 is also added to fortified foods such as whole grain breads and cereals. Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections. Long-term use of antibiotics can cause B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 and Antibiotics Interaction
Long-term use of antibiotics can deplete vitamin B12 levels in the body, leading to B12 deficiency symptoms. Long-term use of antibiotics also depletes other B vitamins. Patients should avoid taking B12 supplements at the same time with antibiotics. Patients should also increase consumption of B12-rich foods while they are taking antibiotics.
B12 Administration
The daily recommended dietary intake of vitamin B12 is 2.4mcg in adults. Healthy people who consume a balanced diet rich in animal products and fortified foods do not need take B12 supplements, however. B12 supplements are suitable for patients with digestive problems such as swallowing difficulties, stomach cancer, stomach surgeries and intestinal diseases. Vitamin B12 is available in oral, sublingual, intranasal and injections forms. Injectable B12 is more suitable for patients with digestive problems and severe B12 deficiency symptoms. B12 shots are administered into deep muscles such as the deltoid and ventrogluteal.
Symptoms of B12 Deficiency
Patients with B12 deficiency experience symptoms such as pernicous anemia, fatigue, constipation, loss of appetite, numbness and tingling in hands and feet, confusion, loss of memory, dementia, soreness of the mouth and tongue, muscle weakness and lack of coordination. B12 deficiency in children can cause symptoms such as delayed growth, failure to thrive and movement disorders.
Complications of B12 Deficiency
Untreated B12 can lead to complications such as permanent nerve damage, problems walking, psychosis and severe dementia. Patients should seek treatment for B12 deficiency as soon as possible so as to avoid complications. Doctors recommend taking B12 supplements together with folic acid and other B vitamins so as to avoid imbalance of other B vitamins.
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