Treatments for autism have varied greatly since the early 1990s--from swimming with dolphins to medications, behavioral programs to gluten-free and casein-free diets and vitamin supplements. Pressure is on researchers to find viable treatments for symptoms--and ultimately, a cure--since the incidence of this disorder has increased to 1 in 150 children and 1 in 94 boys as of 2007. Injectable dosing of Vitamin B12, to help manage symptoms for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is currently under scrutiny, and with ample cause.
Theories/Speculation
Treating ASD with subcutaneous--just under the first layer of skin-injections of B12-AKA methylcobalamin--has been under explored by many professionals. Logic has lead doctors, researchers and nutritionists to speculate that since autism is a neurological conditions and the B vitamins favorably supplement the nervous system, perhaps a deficiency of this group of vitamins may be linked to the disorder. B12 injections are recommended over oral doses due to better absorption.
History
Using methyl-B12 as a treatment for autism began "accidentally" in 2002 by Dr. James Neubrander. He was experimenting with several members of the vitamin B family in relation to earlier claims of vitamin B6 helping to alleviate symptoms of ASD. He found B12 to surpass the effectiveness of B6 and presented his methyl-B12 theory at a Defeat Autism Now (DAN) conference in the fall of 2003. Other DAN practitioners were then eager to begin their own trials.
Function
Vitamin B12 is key in the typical functioning of the brain and nervous system. It is used by the body in the formation of red blood cells, metabolism of cells and DNA synthesis as well as fatty acid synthesis and energy production. This vitamin cannot be stored in the body and therefore must rely on replenishment in the forms of diet and supplements. Foods rich in B12 include beef liver, clams, and fortified cereals.
Potential
Dr. Jaquelyn McCandless is a DAN physician who enthusiastically supports the use of B12. She states, "Methyl-B12 is estimated to be effective, to some degree, in 80 to 90 percent of ASD children." Improved executive function, speech, language, socialization and emotion are the benefits that researchers and parents are looking for. Her colleague, Dr. Neubrander is confident that if methyl-B12 is given in the right dose, at the right time and in the right form, 94 percent of children may show benefit.
Side Effects
McCandless and Neubrander also acknowledge side effects of methyl-B12. They may include increased hyperactivity and increased stimming, which is repetitive actions such as hand-flapping, rocking and sounds. Others could be changes in sleep patterns and increased mouthing of objects. Dr. Neubrander reports it is important to give this supplement up to five weeks to whether the benefits are worth sticking with it. Side effects have decreased in patients within two to six months, while benefits continue.
Studies
Studies on benefits of methyl-B12 are inconclusive. According to an April 2, 2009 report on U.S. News.com, Dr. Robert Hendren, executive director of the MIND Institute at UC Davis, tested effects of methyl-B12 and results have not been statistically significant. Hendren has reported that 9 of the 30 children studied did measurably improve in language and social skills. This government-sponsored study by the National Institute of Health has yet to publish its findings. Many clinicians, families and patients await the outcome.
Considerations
Methyl-B12 has no supporting published studies showing significant benefits for autistic individuals. Hopes remain high as many families have reported remarkable improvements. We do know that every person with autism is different, and each responds differently to interventions. Educating yourself, speaking with your child's doctor and then trying it is the only way to know for sure if methyl-B12 will work for your child.
