Vitamin B12 toxicity: Full list of potential side effects from injections or supplements

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B12 is crucial for making DNA and red blood cells, and it helps support the nervous system. Vitamin B12 deficiency may affect between 1.5 to 15 percent of people. To counteract this many people take supplements to help improve their B12 levels. What are the three main signs you have taken too much?

“A common side effect of vitamin B overdose is gastrointestinal problems,” said Medicover Hospitals.

The site added: “When a higher dose of vitamin B is taken, people may suffer from indigestion, nausea or mild diarrhoea.

“People with a prior history of gastrointestinal problems and aged individuals are more likely to suffer from intense stomach cramps and severe diarrhoea after taking high doses of vitamin B.”

Most people are able to get enough vitamin B12 from their diets, however, occasionally when running low, supplements or B12 injections may be recommended.

Side effects from B12 supplementation are rare, but possible when receiving B12 injections.

Some people may need B12 supplementation due to certain conditions that inhibit absorption.

Side effects from B12 injections include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Skin irritation
• Fatigue
• A tingling sensation in hands or feet.

Supplementing with excessively high levels of B12 has been linked to other negative side effects.

Several studies have shown that mega doses of the vitamin can lead to outbreaks of acne and rosacea which is a skin condition that causes redness and pus-filled bumps on the face.

There is also some evidence suggesting that high doses of B12 may lead to negative health outcomes in those with diabetes or kidney disease.

Some studies have found participants receiving the high-dose B vitamins had a greater risk of heart attack, stroke and death, compared to those receiving a placebo.

The NHS confirmed that people are usually given once-daily injections every other day for two weeks to help combat a vitamin B12 deficiency.

After this initial period, vitamin B12 injections are usually given every two to months for the rest of your life.

Whether you’re having vitamin B12 injections, or supplements, speak to your doctor if you’re experiencing side effects.

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