Can I take vitamin B12 without doctor?

If you're interested in taking a B12 supplement, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor first because B12 supplements can interact with some medications like chloramphenicol (a type of antibiotic) and metformin (which is used to treat diabetes) or simply may not be necessary for you.

Do I need a prescription for vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 can lift energy and mood, especially if you have a deficiency. You can buy B12 injections online but you will need a prescription. Whether you work with Hone or your physician to get a prescription, it's important to make sure your B12 injections come from a trusted source.

Should you ask your doctor before taking vitamin B12?

It is not recommended to start taking any supplement without checking with your physician and/or registered dietitian nutritionist first. Taking excessive amounts of vitamin B12 can mask health conditions, such as pernicious anemia, delaying the treatment that you may need.

Can anyone take B12 supplements?

When taken by mouth: Vitamin B12 is likely safe for most people. Vitamin B12 is considered safe even in large doses. When applied to the skin: Vitamin B12 is likely safe for most people when used appropriately. When sprayed into the nose: Vitamin B12 is likely safe for most people.

Can you take vitamin B12 on its own?

Your body does not make vitamin B12 on its own, so you have to consume food and drinks that have vitamin B12 in order to get it.

Ask Dr. Nandi: Should you take Vitamin B12 to boost mood?

Who should not take B12 supplements?

What are the symptoms of low B12?

What happens if your B12 is too high?

In some people, high levels of B12 may cause gastrointestinal problems such as bloating and diarrhea. And if you have high blood pressure or poor cardiovascular health, having too much B12 may further complicate these issues. Pregnant and breastfeeding women may also need to be especially mindful of B12 levels.

How long does it take for B12 vitamins to start working?

It may take a few weeks before your vitamin B12 levels and symptoms (such as extreme tiredness or lack of energy) start to improve. If you have hydroxocobalamin injections to boost your vitamin B12 levels at the start of treatment, the cyanocobalamin tablets may start to work within a few days.

What are the benefits of taking B12?

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that helps keep your body's blood and nerve cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material in all of your cells. Vitamin B12 also helps prevent megaloblastic anemia, a blood condition that makes people tired and weak.

Is it OK to take vitamins without consulting doctor?

This may seem like no big deal — they're available over the counter, after all. But not needing a prescription doesn't mean there isn't a real risk of harm. That's why it's crucial to talk with your doctor before adding any supplement to your routine, even a daily multivitamin.

What happens when you start taking B12?

May give you an energy boost

On the other hand, if you're significantly deficient in vitamin B12, taking a supplement or increasing your intake will likely improve your energy level ( 32 ). In fact, one of the most common early signs of vitamin B12 deficiency is fatigue or lack of energy ( 2 ).

Does vitamin B12 give you energy?

So does vitamin B12 give you energy? While B12 doesn't directly provide energy, it does give the body the tools it needs to convert food molecules into energy. Getting the recommended daily amount of B12 can therefore help ensure that the body is able to make the energy it needs to do everything you need it to do.

Can I take B12 without deficiency?

B12 is an important nutrient that is popularly used as a nutritional supplement, even by those without a B12 deficiency. Though doses of up to 2,000 mcg of vitamin B12 are considered safe, it's best to speak with a doctor to find out whether taking a supplement is necessary.

How many B12 pills should I take a day?

However, B12 supplements may help increase energy levels and reduce fatigue those who are deficient in this nutrient ( 20 ). One review recommended that those with vitamin B12 deficiency take 1 mg of vitamin B12 daily for a month, followed by a maintenance dose of 125–250 mcg per day ( 21 ).

How can I get B12 naturally?

Which fruit is rich in vitamin B12?

Fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries and oranges are some fruits that are high in vitamin B12.

What is the fastest way to fix B12 deficiency?

How to raise your B12 levels fast. The most common way to treat B12 deficiencies is by adjusting your diet. If this is unsuccessful, vitamin supplements may be recommended. If you're looking to boost the amount of vitamin B12 in your diet, you should eat more animal products, like meat, seafood, dairy and eggs.

What causes B12 deficiency?

Some people can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency as a result of not getting enough vitamin B12 from their diet. A diet that includes meat, fish and dairy products usually provides enough vitamin B12, but people who do not regularly eat these foods can become deficient.

Can B12 make you tired?

Fatigue. If you're low or deficient in B12, you'll likely feel fatigued. Your body's cells need B12 to function properly. As such, having inadequate B12 levels can decrease normal red blood cell production, which can impair oxygen delivery ( 8 ).

Is it OK to take 1000 mcg B12 daily?

Even the lowest doses in B12 supplements are many times the recommended dietary allowance. Doses up to 1,000 mcg, though unnecessary, aren't harmful.

How much B12 should a woman take daily?

The Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board recommends that healthy adult men and women over 19 years old consume 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B-12 each day. Pregnant women need 2.6 micrograms daily and women who are breastfeeding need 2.8 micrograms daily.

What food is highest in B12?

Vitamin B12 is a key nutrient that your body needs for many essential functions. It's found in large amounts in animal products, fortified foods, and dietary supplements. Some of the richest sources are liver, beef, sardines, clams, and dairy products.

Who is most at risk for vitamin B12?

Can a B12 supplement hurt you?

Vitamin B12 has a low risk of causing harm, even at high doses. Because of this, there's currently no maximum dose that's widely recommended. However, some forms of vitamin B12 (mainly injectable and nasal B12) can cause headache or fatigue at normal doses.