Methylcobalamin, or methyl B12, is one of the forms of vitamin B12 used in vitamin supplementation, and may prove beneficial to those suffering from pain and numbness associated with neuropathy. The Center for Neuropathy at the University of Chicago notes that early diagnosis and treatment with B12 supplementation, either oral or through injections, may help heal nerve damage and restore proper function.
About Neuropathy
Neuropathy, also called peripheral neuropathy, is caused by damage to the nerves that run from your central nervous system to the rest of your body. Damage to these nerves interrupts their ability to send messages to parts of your body, such as your arms and legs. This can lead to tingling, numb sensations and pain in the arms, legs or other areas of the body. A number of conditions can lead to neuropathy, including diabetes, certain infections and auto-immune diseases. A vitamin B12 deficiency, caused by poor diet, pernicious anemia or other conditions, can also cause neuropathy if left untreated.
Reversing Neuropathy
Neuropathy usually happens gradually, and if the symptoms remain untreated for too long, the nerve damage may be irreversible. To heal the damaged nerves, B12 supplementation should begin as soon as possible. Though cyanocobalamin remains a common form of supplementation, some evidence suggests that methylcobalamin may help specifically with neuropathy. In a study published in the April 1994 volume of the "Journal of the Neurological Sciences," researchers from Kyoto University Hospital's Department of Neurology found enhanced nerve regeneration in rats given high doses of methyl B12. The researchers concluded that "ultra-high doses of methyl-B12 may be of clinical use for patients with peripheral neuropathies."
About Methyl B12
According to Gary E. Foresman, M.D., cyanocobalamin, the form of B12 found in most vitamin supplements, is a synthesized compound not found in nature. Methylcobalamin, however, is a naturally occurring and "active" substance. Peter J D'Adamo, N.D., further notes that methyl B12 is specifically needed for nervous system health, as the body absorbs and retains methyl B12 better than other forms of B12.
Considerations
A B12 deficiency is just one of many possible causes of neuropathy, and methyl B12 supplementation may not reverse neuropathy caused by some conditions. Because of this, it's important to receive prompt medical care and testing in order to determine the exact cause of your neuropathy. See a doctor with experience and knowledge in issues related to neuropathy to determine the cause of your condition and the appropriate treatment. If your neuropathy is caused by pernicious anemia, you'll need to take a form of B12 for the rest of your life. If your neuropathy is caused by another condition such as diabetes, you'll need additional specialized treatment to manage the condition.
References
- University of Chicago Center for Peripheral Neuropathy: About Peripheral Neuropathy - What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
- Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin B12
- Science Direct; Ultra-High Dose Methylcobalamin Promotes Nerve Regeneration in Experimental Acrylamide Neuropathy; Tetsuya Watanabe; 1993
- Middle Path Medicine; Methylcobalamin (Active B12); Gary E. Foresman, M.D.; 2007f
- Ask Dr. D'Adamo: Cyanocobalamin Versus Methylcobalamin
- University of Chicago Center for Peripheral Neuropathy: Nutritional / Vitamin Deficiency
