B-12 Injections For Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue syndrome can cause debilitating symptoms that significantly impact your overall well-being and your ability to function. While there's no known cure for this disorder, certain treatments, such as vitamin B-12 injections, may provide relief from symptoms, according to naturopathic doctor Jonathan Prousky in his book, "The Vitamin Cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome." However, there's not much clinical evidence to support the claim that injections help.

Vitamin B12 and Fatigue

Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is a member of the B-complex family of vitamins. The B-complex vitamins aid in energy metabolism and help maintain proper nervous system function and the health of your skin, hair, eyes and liver. Vitamin B-12 is found naturally in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Deficiencies are common in the elderly, vegans and people with HIV or eating disorders. A deficiency of vitamin B-12 is associated with a number of symptoms, including shortness of breath, nervousness, numbness and fatigue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Low levels of vitamin B-12 may also be associated with symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, says Dr. Melvyn R. Werbach in an April 2000 clinical review article for the journal "Alternative Medicine Review."

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome causes troublesome symptoms that extend beyond feelings of persistent fatigue. Additional symptoms include low-grade fever, chills, headaches, sleep disturbances, mood changes and cognitive problems. While the causes of chronic fatigue syndrome aren't entirely understood, researchers believe that nutritional deficiencies, depression, immune system disorders, stress and anxiety may play a contributing role. Treatments focus on symptom management and may include antidepressants, pain relievers and lifestyle changes such as implementing a regular stress management routine and eating a healthy diet. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that certain supplements, such as vitamin B-12 injections, may help symptoms of fatigue, but there's not enough proof that they can help chronic fatigue syndrome.

Clinical Studies

Although practitioners like Prousky support the benefits of vitamin B-12 injections for chronic fatigue syndrome, there's virtually no clinical evidence evaluating their effectiveness. However, some studies have linked vitamin B-12 deficiency with symptoms of fatigue. A study published in 2005 in the journal "Neurology India" showed that patients with a vitamin B-12 deficiency had higher levels of fatigue as well as depression and other cognitive impairments. However, a study that specifically examined the efficacy of vitamin B-12 injections on chronic fatigue syndrome was limited to evaluation of just one participant. This study, published in the November 1996 issue of "Canadian Family Physician" showed no benefits of vitamin B-12 injections on the patient.

Warning

If you think you may have chronic fatigue syndrome, do not attempt to diagnose your condition. Consult your doctor to obtain a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.