What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and proper nervous system function. It is primarily found in animal-based foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. People who may be deficient in B12 include vegans or vegetarians, as their diets lack animal products, older adults with impaired absorption, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease, or those who have had weight-loss surgery. B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, and neurological issues if untreated.
Why an injection if it's found in food?
One of the main reasons for B12 deficiency is lack of absorption in the stomach. B12 relies on components found in stomach acid to absorb the vitamin and make it available to the body. For this reason, individuals with digestive issues, who take anti acids such as lansoprazole or have a history of eating disorders or restrictive diets may have a B12 deficiency.
Research has found that intramuscular injection is a more efficient way of providing the body with vitamin B12.
Simple enquiry
Book online or call the clinic to schedule an appointment. Prior to your appointment, you will be asked to complete a short form, this will be emailed to you if you book online or completed over the phone if you call.
Prescription approval
Your practitioner will submit a prescription request using the answers from the form you've provided. Most requests without contraindications are approved within 48 hours.
Vitamin B12 appointment
You'll attend your scheduled appointment where you'll receive 1000mcg of hydroxocobalamin (Vit B12).
You'll have the opportunity to ask any questions, discuss any needle phobias and discuss future treatment options.
Treatment plan
Depending on your circumstance, you may wish to keep up with vitamin B12 injections in order to ensure a deficiency is avoided. This can be discussed and arranged with your practitioner and repeat prescriptions can be made.
Patient journey
Intramuscular B12 injections are strictly a prescribed medication in the UK and should only ever be administered by a trained, insured practitioner who uses only UK approved hydroxocobalamin. Every injection performed at West-Gate is approved by an independent prescriber who ensures the individual recipient is safe to receive the treatment
