What type of supplementation may be required for patients with vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency often necessitates the use of subcutaneous or intramuscular (IM) injections for effective treatment. This approach is typically required because Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, can be poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract in certain individuals, particularly those with specific medical conditions such as pernicious anemia, gastrointestinal surgery, or malabsorption syndromes.

Subcutaneous or IM injections allow for direct entry into the bloodstream, bypassing any absorption issues associated with oral forms of supplementation. This method ensures that an adequate level of vitamin B12 is achieved quickly, which is vital for addressing the deficiency and preventing further complications such as neurological issues or anemia. While oral supplementation may be an option for some individuals with milder deficiencies or absorption capabilities, it is not always sufficient or reliable in cases of significant deficiency.

Other supplementary forms, such as topical applications or herbal supplements, do not provide the necessary levels of bioavailable vitamin B12 and are not established treatments for this deficiency. Therefore, the use of injections is deemed the most effective and reliable method for treating patients with Vitamin B12 deficiency.