Vitamin B12 supplements can be taken in pill, patch, liquid, injection, or nasal spray form and may include other vitamins and additives. They are mainly used for deficiency symptoms, but can also benefit vegetarians and those with certain health conditions. Elderly individuals and Alzheimer’s patients may also benefit from supplementation. Side effects are rare, but interactions with other medications should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.
Vitamin B12 supplements are mainly taken by people who have symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, but they can be used for other reasons as well. These additional vitamins are available as a pill, transdermal patch, or liquid, and can also be received by injection or nasal spray. Vitamin B12 supplements may include other vitamins with which they collaborate, such as folic acid. Some also contain additives, fillers, sugars, and artificial colors, flavors, and other substances. Vitamin B12 supplements are added to some processed foods, such as breads and cereals.
While vitamin B12 deficiencies occur rarely in most people, they can be harmful. B12 deficiency symptoms can include memory loss, lack of sensation, headaches, and breathing difficulties. It is widely believed that taking vitamin B12 supplements can lessen or alleviate these symptoms.
Vitamin B12 deficiencies are more common among the elderly. Some experts suggest that up to 20 percent of people over the age of 60 may experience problems related to these deficiencies. Experts also suggest that taking vitamin B12 supplements starting in middle age can prevent problems. Research studies have revealed that many Alzheimer’s patients have low levels of vitamin B12.
Vegetarians are at risk of developing a deficiency of this vitamin. The main sources of vitamin B12 are beef, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Vegetarians are often urged to take vitamin B12 supplements or eat B12-enriched foods to prevent diseases and problems related to a lack of this vitamin. Others, including those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, anxiety, and insomnia, may find vitamin B12 supplements helpful.
Most often, vitamin B12 supplements are taken in pill or capsule form, but these are not always considered the most effective because they contain relatively low amounts of the vitamin. Many people, including those who smoke, can also have trouble absorbing vitamins. For that reason, vitamin B12 supplements in the transdermal patch, nasal spray, injection, or liquid form are often preferred because they contain more concentrated doses and deliver the vitamin to the bloodstream quickly. There is some debate as to which form of vitamin B12 supplementation is most effective.
While vitamin B12 side effects are rare, they do occur. It is unknown if they are caused by higher doses of the vitamin or by other constituents of the supplements. Those starting to take vitamin B12 supplements should discuss the use of alcohol, prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and other dietary supplements with a doctor or pharmacist, as B12 can interact with some of these.
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