Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which individuals demonstrate difficulty with social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors. Symptoms often become apparent in children between the first and third years of life. Treatments include a variety of behavioral therapies and medication interventions. Injections of vitamin B-12 may minimize the behavioral symptoms of the disorder.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is available in dietary supplements, prescription medications and food products. Vitamin B-12 naturally occurs in meat, fish, eggs and milk products. Dietary supplements are usually available as cyanocobalamin, a form of B-12. As a prescription, B-12 is commonly given as an injection into the muscle; it can also be applied through an intranasal gel.
Mechanism of B-12
According to Sonya Doherty, a naturopathic physician, vitamin B-12 plays a critical role in methylation in the brain. Methylation is key to the development of cells in the brain. Methylation facilitates DNA and RNA production, protein formation and detoxification of heavy metals, minimizing inflammation and creating glutathione. Glutathione is the enzyme that contributes to detoxification of metals like lead and mercury. In methylation, environmental factors and the manner in which genes are expressed can influence the development of disorders such as autism.
B-12 Shots
As discussed by James Neubrander, M.D., a driving force behind the use of B-12 injections to treat autism, methyl B-12 injections are most effective when delivered intramuscularly to the buttocks. Methyl B-12 activates biochemical pathways in the brain that send methyl groups and glutathione to the brain and the body, enhancing body's ability to remove toxins from the brain. Observed changes in behavior include increased executive functioning, language and communication, social and play skills, and emotional responsivity. Neubrander claims that more than 90 percent of the children with autism he has treated have shown behavioral improvements with methyl B-12 treatment.
Proper Dosage
Neubrander describes a protocol for administration of the injections to children with autism. The recommended dose is 64.5 mcg/kg every three days. He recommends a concentration of 25 mg/mL in the B-12 solution. He reports that this allows a more consistent and slower release rate. Injections should be delivered consistently with no change for a five-week trial. Injections should then be continued for at least 18 to 24 months, he says.
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