Service Description

Your body requires vitamin B12 to make red blood cells. You can get it from your food or supplements, but sometimes there may not be enough vitamins in what you eat. This can happen if you are vegan or you do not eat much meat or dairy products. The most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency in the UK is Pernicious Anaemia (an autoimmune condition that affects your stomach).Vitamin B12 deficiency can also be a side effect of Metformin, a Diabetes medicine, particularly if you take a high dose of Metformin or if you take it for a long time. Hydroxocobalamin is a manufactured version of the vitamin B12. It is used to treat and prevent vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia, where you have low levels of this vitamin in your body. Hydroxocobalamin is only available on prescription therefore it is important that you attend a face to face consultation. How does a B12 injection work? Hydroxocobalamin starts to work straight away. However, it may take a few days or weeks before your symptoms start to improve and you feel better. At first, you may need to have the injection a few times a week to boost your levels of vitamin B12. Once your condition improves, you might only have it every few months. What are the risks and side effects? Some common side effects are feeling or being sick and diarrhoea. You may experience some pain, swelling or itching at the injection site. This is usually mild and does not last long. It is safe to take for a long time. Some people need to take Hydroxocobalamin for the rest of their lives. Who may not be able to have a B12 injection? Hydroxocobalamin is not suitable for people who have ever has an allergic reaction to Hydroxocobalamin or any other medicine. Those who have been told you have low levels of potassium and/or an irregular or fast heartbeat (Arrhythmia). How often will I need the injection? The injection can be given every 6 months if due to a dietary deficiency, or 2-3 months if the cause of your low B12 levels is Pernicious Anaemia.

Contact Details

• 16 Stockton Terrace, Sunderland, UK