The Nurse Clinic uses Prescription only B12 called Hydroxocobalamin 1mg/1ml. For more information on this product please see the patient information leaflet via the link below
Before attending your appointment, it is preferred that you have a recent blood test to check your B12 level.
Access your blood results via your GP, alternatively self perform blood tests can be delivered to your home from one of the companies below.
Common Questions
It is not essential to have blood tests prior to B12 Injections however it is preferred unless you have previous records to show a history of B12 deficiency. If you have a collection of symptoms that may require further investigation it may be beneficial to seek blood tests via your GP or private route/self testing. Some self test options are available online. We recommend the following listed below
It is practically impossible to have too much B12. There is no recommended maximum. Vitamin B12 is very safe, however if you do have an excessive amount it can lead to side effects
Here at The Nurse Clinic we administer B12 Injections for Dietary or Wellbeing purposes unless you have evidence from your GP showing diagnosis of a medical condition which can lead to B12 deficiency
The recommended guidelines for the administration of vitamin B12 injections can be found below however generally it is suggested that the following is advised:
For Dietary or Wellness – Every 6 months
For B12 Deficiency– Every 2-3 months
INTRAMUSCULAR (IM) will be released into the systemic circulation reasonably quickly, bypassing the gastric system therefore you will absorb much more.
INTRAVENOUS (IV) will be released into the systemic circulation instantly. It delivers 100% of the medication and you therefore absorb 100% of the medication.
How Do Vitamin B12 Injections Work?
Vitamin B12 is a vital component in ensuring we function properly in our day to day lives. It helps us stay energetic, protects us against a number of health issues.Studies have even suggested that it can improve your memory and overall brain function.
Why is an injection effective?
An injection is one of the most effective ways to get B12 and is typically used for those who might not benefit from tablets, liquids or capsule supplements for any reason. They are typically injected into a muscle. They can be administered whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your diet and if you have any existing medical conditions. As Vitamin B12 is also water-soluble, any excess of the vitamin that your body doesn’t need or have the capacity for will pass through and remove any risk of overdose.
Getting the right balance of vitamins and nutrients in your diet can feel like a constant battle. B12 can be particularly difficult for those who don’t or can’t eat certain foods such as meat, shellfish, eggs and dairy. With around 15% of people failing to get the right levels of Vitamin B12 through their diet alone and with the body unable to produce any for itself, supplements and injections have become a common solution.
What are the signs of B12 deficiency?
Any person with the signs or symptoms of a B12 deficiency should pay a visit to their doctor, but an injection may still provide them with benefits. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue and Lethargy
- Depression
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Difficulty with balance
- Decreased Cognitive Function
- Constipation
- Sore or Swollen Tongue
- Palpitations
- Mouth Ulcers
- Pins and Needles
- Changes to vision
People With Gastrointestinal Issues
If you’re suffering from any gastrointestinal disorders, you may be at a higher risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency. This is because issues with regular function of the gastrointestinal tract can prevent the proper release and absorption of the vitamin which causes deficiency. Injections are particularly good in these cases, as they bypass the tract for higher absorption rates than with food or oral supplements.
Adults over the age of 65
Due to a number of common issues associated with ageing, including the reduced production of stomach acid, people over the age of 65 may be more prone to a B12 deficiency. For this reason, people in this age group are often recommended to either take supplements, eat fortified foods or get regular injections.
Vegetarians and Vegans
Vitamin B12 isn’t produced by our bodies despite being one of the most important nutrients needed for everyday function. However, it can be found in foods like fish, eggs, meat and dairy products. For this reason, those eating a vegetarian or a vegan diet are more prone to B12 deficiency. Injections are particularly beneficial for those who are pregnant, who may follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, as it can more accurately ensure that both mum and baby are getting the right volume that they need.
B12 provides a number of benefits, from reducing the risk of deficiency-related conditions to improving brain function, bone health and giving you an overall energy boost:
Reduced risk of associated complications
Even if you aren’t showing pressing signs of a B12 deficiency, many of us still aren’t getting the right volume every day, particularly if we’re sick, pregnant or breastfeeding. Vitamin B12 shots can help to prevent the associated complications of deficiency, including heart disease, coordination problems, vision loss, infertility, neurocognitive disorders and peripheral neuropathy. Some of these conditions can be solved with an injection, but we can discuss this with you on a case-by-case basis.
Higher Level Of Absorption
When injected into the body, Vitamin B12 can bypass the gastrointestinal tract and go directly where it’s needed – for this reason, a shot can be a better choice than oral supplements for a higher level of assimilation. This is particularly beneficial for adults over 65 and those with problems or previous surgery in the digestive tract.
May Help Brain Function
While B12 can’t necessarily improve your brain function on its own, it can help to prevent the loss of neurons associated with memory reduction. Some studies suggest that it can even slow down the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.
It has also been suggested that B12 deficiency could be a cause of poor memory on a shorter-term basis, which may be helped by a B12 injection or supplement.
Vitamin B12 prevents the loss of neurons in the brain, helping to improve brain function and prevent memory reduction.
May Reduce Depression Risk
Studies into depression have suggested that low B12 can be a cause of a depressed mood. B12 is a key player in the production of the mood-regulating chemical serotonin and when your body is lacking the vitamin, production can decrease. While B12 injections can’t cure depression on their own, they have been known to relieve or reduce some of the symptoms and can also be used to reduce the risk of severe cases of depression.
May Promote Bone Health
While a B12 shot won’t immediately solve any bone-related issues you may have, the ongoing maintenance of a healthy level may help to promote your bone health. Those suffering from B12 deficiency have been known to have lower than normal bone mineral density, which can lead to osteoporosis over time.
May Give An Energy Boost
All B vitamins, not just B12, play an important part in how your body produces energy. A lack of B12 in the body can lead to fatigue and tiredness and for this reason, those of us with a deficiency could see an energy boost after a Vitamin B12 injection
We also offer IV Vitamin B Complex.
A combination of B1, B2, B3, B5 & B6
To find out more click the button below
How do I know I am in safe hands at The Nurse Clinic?
The Nurse Clinic is CQC Registered
CQC (Care Quality Commission) Registered in 2022 for the following Regulated Activities
- Treatment of Disease Disorder and Injury.
- Surgical Procedures
For more information see link below
Donna Dady is NMC Registered
NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) is the mandatory regulatory board for all UK Nurses and Midwives in the UK. Their role is to:
- Promote high education and professional standards for nurses and midwives across the UK.
- Maintain the register of professionals eligible to practise.
- Investigate concerns about nurses, midwives and nursing associates
Over 25 years Experience in Nursing
Donna is the Founder and Advanced Nurse Specialist at The Nurse Clinic.
Registered General Nurse (1996) with extensive background of experience within GP Practice and Urgent Care settings.
She has worked in Oxford, Leicester, London and also travelled extensively overseas and worked aboard cruise liners as a Nursing Officer.
Highly competent in treating Adults and Children at an Advanced Level and is an Independent Nurse Prescriber.