Daily B12 injections are sometimes used, but the frequency depends on your individual needs and medical condition. It's not a blanket "yes" or "no."
Understanding B12 Injection Frequency
Several sources indicate that daily B12 injections are sometimes prescribed, especially initially for severe deficiencies. However, this is not a standard long-term approach.
- Initial Treatment: For individuals with severe B12 deficiencies, daily injections may be prescribed for a short period (e.g., 5-10 days, or up to two weeks) to quickly raise B12 levels, until symptoms improve. [GoodRx, WebMD, Medical News Today, NHS]
- Maintenance Therapy: Once levels have improved, the frequency is reduced significantly. Maintenance typically involves injections every 3-4 days for a month, followed by less frequent injections, perhaps monthly or even less often depending on the individual's response to treatment and ongoing need. [GoodRx, Wilson Aesthetics, Invigor Medical]
- Example Regimen: One source suggests a regimen of 100 mcg injected daily or every other day for 7 days, then every 3-4 days for a month, and then continuous maintenance injections throughout life. [Wilson Aesthetics]
Important Note: The decision to use daily injections, or any injection frequency for B12, should always be made by a healthcare professional based on a thorough assessment of your health and individual needs. Self-treating with B12 injections can be dangerous.
Safety Considerations
While B12 is generally considered safe, excessive doses can have potential side effects. Daily injections should only be undertaken under strict medical supervision to ensure both efficacy and safety.
- Potential Risks: While generally safe, some sources caution about potential risks, especially concerning the type of B12 used. For example, using cyanocobalamin may be associated with side effects for certain individuals, such as those with Leber's disease. [Drugs.com]
Ultimately, determining the safety of daily B12 injections hinges on the specific clinical context. Always consult a doctor before starting any B12 injection regimen.
