A B12 injection is primarily used for treating vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia occurs when your body doesn't have enough vitamin B12, which is needed to make healthy red blood cells. This deficiency can lead to various symptoms and health complications.
How B12 Injections Work
B12 injections bypass the digestive system, delivering the vitamin directly into the bloodstream. This is especially beneficial for individuals who have difficulty absorbing B12 from food or oral supplements. Hydroxocobalamin is a common form of B12 used in injections.
Treatment Schedule
Typically, the treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency anemia starts with a series of B12 injections, often administered every other day for a couple of weeks or until symptoms begin to improve. After the initial treatment phase, a maintenance schedule may be prescribed to keep B12 levels within a healthy range.