Vitamin B12 Shots

Increase your energy and mood and boost your immune system with a simple B12 shot.

How B12 Booster Shots Work

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that supports brain function and the production of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency is common, so many adults benefit from supplementing their levels. It’s most commonly deficient in vegans and vegetarians, but some meat eaters don’t absorb the vitamin well, so their diet doesn’t provide enough. Deficiency is also common in the elderly, people who have had intestinal surgery, and people with gut-related diseases like Crohn’s or celiac.

A B12 shot serves as a preventive measure to stop the progression of a more severe deficiency. It provides an immediate surge of B12 to the body and also prevents some longer-term issues.

Some recipients of B12 shots report feeling revitalized, having higher energy, and experiencing improved focus. B12 injections can be metabolized by your body more efficiently than oral supplements, so they’re the quickest way to provide an immediate boost.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

B12 shots are safe and appropriate for most individuals, without any side effects other than mild bruising at the injection site. There is likely nothing necessary for you to prepare before your appointment.

That said, you should always inform your provider of your existing medications, allergies, and conditions, so be ready to share those prior to your injection.

B12 Injection Steps

• Your provider may apply a topical anesthetic to the injection site to numb the treatment area.

• Your provider will walk you through what to expect, then administer the injection in your arm.

• The entire process will take less than an hour.

• You’ll notice improvements to energy, mood, fatigue, and more within the following day.

B12 Shot FAQ

Will I benefit from a B12 injection?

You will need to discuss your health with your provider in order to get more information about whether the shot is likely to have an impact. There are certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of deficiency, including frequent alcohol consumption, old age, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, being vegan or vegetarian, and some other health conditions. Talk to your provider about your health to learn what they recommend.

What are common symptoms of B12 deficiency?

• Difficulty remembering things / brain fog

• Chronic fatigue

• Heart palpitations

• Paleness

• Weight loss

• Numb or tingling hands/feet

• Dementia

• Frequent mood changes

• Sore tongue

• Poor appetite

• Constipation

How often should I get injections?

Injections can be administered as single or double doses. The single dose will typically remain effective for 7-12 days, and double dose for 2-3 weeks. When combined with proper nutrition, results can last longer. Talk to your provider about what injection regimen they recommend for you.