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Side effects sublingual b12. Vitamin B-12 Side Effects: Understanding Risks and Benefits of Supplementation

by alexxlab

What are the potential side effects of vitamin B-12 supplementation. How much vitamin B-12 do you need daily. Can taking too much vitamin B-12 be harmful. What foods are good natural sources of vitamin B-12.

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The Importance of Vitamin B-12 and Its Functions in the Body

Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial nutrient that plays a vital role in various bodily functions. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for the formation of red blood cells, proper neurological function, and DNA synthesis. While most people obtain sufficient amounts of B-12 through their diet, some individuals may require supplementation.

Why is vitamin B-12 so important? Here are some key functions:

  • Red blood cell formation
  • DNA synthesis
  • Neurological function
  • Energy production
  • Mood regulation

Despite its importance, excessive intake of vitamin B-12 supplements can lead to unwanted side effects. Understanding these potential risks is crucial for maintaining optimal health while supplementing.

Common Side Effects of Vitamin B-12 Supplementation

While vitamin B-12 is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly when using injectable forms or high-dose supplements. It’s important to note that these side effects are relatively rare and often mild.

Common side effects of vitamin B-12 supplementation may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea
  • Itching or mild skin rash

These symptoms are typically short-lived and resolve on their own. However, if you experience persistent or severe side effects, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

In rare cases, vitamin B-12 supplementation can lead to more serious side effects. These may include:

  • Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
  • Pulmonary edema
  • Congestive heart failure (early in treatment)
  • Vein thrombosis
  • Polycythemia vera (a rare blood cancer)

If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Factors Affecting Vitamin B-12 Absorption and Serum Levels

Several factors can influence the absorption and serum levels of vitamin B-12 in the body. Understanding these interactions is crucial for maintaining optimal B-12 levels, especially if you’re taking supplements or certain medications.

Medications that may interfere with vitamin B-12 absorption or serum levels include:

  • Metformin (used to treat type 2 diabetes)
  • Proton pump inhibitors (used to reduce stomach acid)
  • H2 blockers (used to treat acid reflux)
  • Colchicine (used to treat gout)
  • Chloramphenicol (an antibiotic)
  • Aminosalicylic acid (used to treat inflammatory bowel disease)

Additionally, high doses of vitamin C and folic acid supplements may interfere with vitamin B-12 absorption. If you’re taking any of these medications or supplements, consult your healthcare provider about the best way to maintain adequate B-12 levels.

Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin B-12

To ensure optimal health and prevent deficiency, it’s important to consume adequate amounts of vitamin B-12. The National Institutes of Health has established Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for different age groups and life stages.

The RDAs for vitamin B-12 are as follows:

  • 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for individuals 14 years and older
  • 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
  • 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women

For adults over 50 years of age, it’s recommended to obtain B-12 from fortified foods or supplements, as the ability to absorb naturally occurring B-12 may decrease with age. In these cases, supplements containing 25 to 100 mcg of B-12 may be appropriate.

Natural Food Sources of Vitamin B-12

While supplements can be beneficial for some individuals, obtaining vitamins and minerals from whole foods is generally the preferred approach. Vitamin B-12 is naturally found in various animal-based foods and some fortified plant-based products.

Excellent natural sources of vitamin B-12 include:

  • Eggs
  • Cheese
  • Fish (especially salmon, trout, and tuna)
  • Shellfish (clams, oysters, and mussels)
  • Liver
  • Kidney
  • Red meat
  • Fortified plant-based milk alternatives
  • Nutritional yeast

By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can help ensure adequate B-12 intake without relying solely on supplements.

Special Considerations for Vitamin B-12 Supplementation

While vitamin B-12 supplements are generally safe for most people, there are some special considerations to keep in mind:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Vitamin B-12 is considered safe to take in recommended dosages during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In fact, adequate B-12 intake is crucial for fetal development and infant health. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Individuals with known sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B-12, cobalt, or any other ingredients in B-12 supplements should avoid taking them. If you’re unsure about potential allergies, consult with an allergist or your healthcare provider before starting supplementation.

Interactions with Other Supplements

As mentioned earlier, high doses of folic acid may interfere with vitamin B-12 absorption. If you’re taking both supplements, it’s important to discuss the timing and dosage with your healthcare provider to ensure optimal absorption of both nutrients.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While vitamin B-12 supplementation is generally safe, there are instances where medical attention may be necessary. It’s important to be aware of potential warning signs and know when to consult a healthcare professional.

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent side effects after taking B-12 supplements
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives
  • Symptoms of B-12 deficiency despite supplementation, such as fatigue, weakness, or neurological symptoms
  • Unexplained changes in your health after starting B-12 supplementation

Your healthcare provider can help determine the cause of your symptoms and adjust your supplementation regimen if necessary.

Alternatives to Oral Vitamin B-12 Supplementation

For individuals who have difficulty absorbing oral vitamin B-12 or those with severe deficiencies, alternative forms of supplementation may be recommended. These can include:

Injectable Vitamin B-12

Intramuscular injections of vitamin B-12 can bypass absorption issues in the digestive tract, making them an effective option for those with severe deficiencies or absorption problems. However, these injections should only be administered under medical supervision.

Sublingual Vitamin B-12

Sublingual tablets or lozenges that dissolve under the tongue may offer improved absorption compared to traditional oral supplements. This form can be particularly useful for individuals with mild to moderate B-12 deficiencies.

Nasal Gel

A prescription nasal gel containing vitamin B-12 is available for those who have trouble with oral supplements or injections. This form allows for absorption through the nasal mucosa.

The choice of supplementation method should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual health needs and preferences.

Monitoring Vitamin B-12 Levels and Adjusting Supplementation

Regular monitoring of vitamin B-12 levels is crucial, especially for individuals taking supplements or those at risk of deficiency. Blood tests can help determine if your current supplementation regimen is effective or if adjustments are needed.

Factors that may necessitate more frequent monitoring include:

  • Age (adults over 50)
  • Vegetarian or vegan diets
  • Gastrointestinal disorders affecting absorption
  • Use of medications that interfere with B-12 absorption
  • History of bariatric surgery

Your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate monitoring schedule based on your individual health status and risk factors.

The Role of Vitamin B-12 in Preventing and Treating Specific Health Conditions

Adequate vitamin B-12 levels are crucial for overall health, but this nutrient also plays a specific role in preventing and managing certain health conditions. Understanding these connections can help emphasize the importance of maintaining optimal B-12 levels.

Anemia

Vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by the production of abnormally large, immature red blood cells. Proper B-12 supplementation can help prevent and treat this form of anemia.

Neurological Health

B-12 is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and producing myelin, the protective covering around nerves. Adequate B-12 levels may help prevent or slow the progression of neurological disorders such as dementia and multiple sclerosis.

Cardiovascular Health

Some research suggests that vitamin B-12, along with other B vitamins, may help reduce homocysteine levels in the blood. High homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Bone Health

Studies have shown a correlation between low vitamin B-12 levels and decreased bone mineral density, particularly in women. Maintaining adequate B-12 intake may help support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

While vitamin B-12 plays a crucial role in these health areas, it’s important to note that supplementation should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially when used to address specific health concerns.

Vitamin B-12 and Mental Health: Exploring the Connection

Emerging research suggests a potential link between vitamin B-12 levels and mental health. While more studies are needed to fully understand this relationship, current evidence points to several interesting connections:

Depression

Some studies have found an association between low vitamin B-12 levels and an increased risk of depression. B-12 supplementation may help improve mood in individuals with deficiency-related depression.

Cognitive Function

Adequate B-12 levels are crucial for cognitive health. Low B-12 has been linked to cognitive decline and may contribute to the development of dementia in older adults.

Anxiety and Stress

While the relationship is not fully understood, some research suggests that B-12 deficiency may exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and stress. Maintaining optimal B-12 levels may support overall mental well-being.

It’s important to note that while vitamin B-12 plays a role in mental health, it is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, consult with a mental health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

The Future of Vitamin B-12 Research and Supplementation

As our understanding of vitamin B-12 and its role in human health continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new areas of study and potential applications for B-12 supplementation. Some exciting avenues of research include:

Personalized Nutrition

Advances in genetic testing and personalized medicine may lead to more tailored recommendations for vitamin B-12 intake based on individual genetic profiles and health status.

Novel Delivery Methods

Researchers are exploring new ways to deliver vitamin B-12, such as transdermal patches or improved sublingual formulations, which may offer better absorption and convenience for users.

Combination Therapies

Studies are investigating the potential benefits of combining vitamin B-12 with other nutrients or compounds to enhance its effectiveness in treating specific health conditions.

Gut Microbiome and B-12 Absorption

Ongoing research is exploring the relationship between gut health, the microbiome, and vitamin B-12 absorption. This may lead to new strategies for improving B-12 uptake in individuals with absorption issues.

As research in these areas progresses, we can expect to see more refined and targeted approaches to vitamin B-12 supplementation in the future. However, it’s important to remember that while these developments are promising, current best practices for B-12 supplementation should still be followed under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Vitamin B-12 Side Effects

Vitamin B-12 Side Effects

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Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph. D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023

Your doctor will give you the right dosage of vitamin B-12 supplement, especially if you will inject it. Taking too much can cause side effects like nausea, headache, dizziness, and in rarely, blood clots or cancer.

Everyone needs vitamin B-12, and most people get enough through their diet. However, it’s important to know what side effects occur when you take too much.

Vitamin B-12 is water-soluble and absorbed in the intestines. After it’s absorbed, it’s used to make DNA and red blood cells. Vitamin B-12 that isn’t being used is stored in the liver. But if you take supplements, you might ingest more than your body needs.

Oral vitamin B-12 is safe to take at recommended doses for healthy people.

Injectable vitamin B-12, which is used to treat significant deficiencies, can cause the following side effects:

  • mild diarrhea
  • itching
  • skin rash
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment
  • vein thrombosis
  • sensation of swelling
  • polycythemia vera (rare, slow growing blood cancer)

Vitamin B-12 can cause very rare but serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). This includes swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. If this occurs after you take vitamin B-12, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

Some agents are linked to reduced absorption or serum levels of vitamin B-12. You may need vitamin B-12 supplements if you take any of the following:

  • colchicine
  • metformin
  • proton pump inhibitors
  • vitamin C
  • chloramphenicol
  • h3 blockers
  • aminosalicylic acid

Folic acid supplements may interfere with vitamin B-12. Be sure to tell your doctor if you take folic acid.

You may need to take vitamin B-12 separately from the above drugs and supplements — say, one in the morning and one at night — so you can get the full dose of vitamin B-12.

Don’t take vitamin B-12 supplements if you have sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B-12, cobalt, and any other ingredients. Vitamin B-12 is safe to take in recommended dosages if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you notice any adverse effects after you start taking vitamin B-12 supplements, you should discontinue use immediately. Seek medical attention if your symptoms get worse or are severe.

You can consult your doctor to establish an appropriate dose if it’s determined that you don’t get enough B-12 from food sources.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dietary amounts (RDAs) are as follows:

  • 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for ages 14 years or older
  • 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
  • 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women

If you’re over the age of 50, you should try to get your RDA by eating foods with B-12 or by taking a supplement containing 25 to 100 mcg of B-12.

Foods with vitamin B-12 include:

  • eggs
  • cheese
  • fish
  • shellfish
  • liver
  • kidney
  • red meat

See your doctor if you have bothersome side effects that don’t go away once you stop taking the supplements. Avoid taking supplements if possible, and try to get B-12 from food sources.

If you develop any side effects from taking vitamin B-12, you can stop taking the supplement and the symptoms should subside.

After this, you’ll need to determine either an appropriate dose or how to get the vitamin B-12 you need from food sources. You can discuss this with your doctor.

Article resources

  • Cyanocobalamin – cyanocobalamin injection. (2023). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a66eb3c4-3e1d-4d49-b963-4fa2334cc9b6
  • Vitamin B12: Fact sheet for health professionals. (2022). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/

Last medically reviewed on June 8, 2023

How we reviewed this article:

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jun 8, 2023

Written By

Emily Cronkleton

Edited By

John Bassham

Medically Reviewed By

Jared Meacham, Ph. D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS

Copy Edited By

Copy Editors

Feb 15, 2023

Written By

Emily Cronkleton

Edited By

Frank Crooks

VIEW ALL HISTORY

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph.D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023

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Vitamin B-12 Side Effects

Vitamin B-12 Side Effects

  • Health Conditions
    • Featured
      • Breast Cancer
      • IBD
      • Migraine
      • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
      • Rheumatoid Arthritis
      • Type 2 Diabetes
    • Articles
      • Acid Reflux
      • ADHD
      • Allergies
      • Alzheimer’s & Dementia
      • Bipolar Disorder
      • Cancer
      • Crohn’s Disease
      • Chronic Pain
      • Cold & Flu
      • COPD
      • Depression
      • Fibromyalgia
      • Heart Disease
      • High Cholesterol
      • HIV
      • Hypertension
      • IPF
      • Osteoarthritis
      • Psoriasis
      • Skin Disorders and Care
      • STDs
  • Discover
    • Wellness Topics
      • Nutrition
      • Fitness
      • Skin Care
      • Sexual Health
      • Women’s Health
      • Mental Well-Being
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    • Product Reviews
      • Vitamins & Supplements
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      • Mental Health
      • Nutrition
      • At-Home Testing
      • CBD
      • Men’s Health
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      • Fresh Food Fast
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      • You’re Not Alone
      • Present Tense
    • Video Series
      • Youth in Focus
      • Healthy Harvest
      • No More Silence
      • Future of Health
  • Plan
    • Health Challenges
      • Mindful Eating
      • Sugar Savvy
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      • Mood Foods
      • Align Your Spine
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      • Mental Health
      • OB-GYN
      • Dermatologists
      • Neurologists
      • Cardiologists
      • Orthopedists
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      • Weight Management
      • Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
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      • Find Healthy Snacks
      • Drugs A-Z
      • Health A-Z
  • Connect
      • Breast Cancer
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      • Psoriatic Arthritis
      • Migraine
      • Multiple Sclerosis
      • Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph. D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023

Your doctor will give you the right dosage of vitamin B-12 supplement, especially if you will inject it. Taking too much can cause side effects like nausea, headache, dizziness, and in rarely, blood clots or cancer.

Everyone needs vitamin B-12, and most people get enough through their diet. However, it’s important to know what side effects occur when you take too much.

Vitamin B-12 is water-soluble and absorbed in the intestines. After it’s absorbed, it’s used to make DNA and red blood cells. Vitamin B-12 that isn’t being used is stored in the liver. But if you take supplements, you might ingest more than your body needs.

Oral vitamin B-12 is safe to take at recommended doses for healthy people.

Injectable vitamin B-12, which is used to treat significant deficiencies, can cause the following side effects:

  • mild diarrhea
  • itching
  • skin rash
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure early in treatment
  • vein thrombosis
  • sensation of swelling
  • polycythemia vera (rare, slow growing blood cancer)

Vitamin B-12 can cause very rare but serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). This includes swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. If this occurs after you take vitamin B-12, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

Some agents are linked to reduced absorption or serum levels of vitamin B-12. You may need vitamin B-12 supplements if you take any of the following:

  • colchicine
  • metformin
  • proton pump inhibitors
  • vitamin C
  • chloramphenicol
  • h3 blockers
  • aminosalicylic acid

Folic acid supplements may interfere with vitamin B-12. Be sure to tell your doctor if you take folic acid.

You may need to take vitamin B-12 separately from the above drugs and supplements — say, one in the morning and one at night — so you can get the full dose of vitamin B-12.

Don’t take vitamin B-12 supplements if you have sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B-12, cobalt, and any other ingredients. Vitamin B-12 is safe to take in recommended dosages if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you notice any adverse effects after you start taking vitamin B-12 supplements, you should discontinue use immediately. Seek medical attention if your symptoms get worse or are severe.

You can consult your doctor to establish an appropriate dose if it’s determined that you don’t get enough B-12 from food sources.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dietary amounts (RDAs) are as follows:

  • 2.4 micrograms (mcg) daily for ages 14 years or older
  • 2.6 mcg daily for pregnant women
  • 2.8 mcg daily for breastfeeding women

If you’re over the age of 50, you should try to get your RDA by eating foods with B-12 or by taking a supplement containing 25 to 100 mcg of B-12.

Foods with vitamin B-12 include:

  • eggs
  • cheese
  • fish
  • shellfish
  • liver
  • kidney
  • red meat

See your doctor if you have bothersome side effects that don’t go away once you stop taking the supplements. Avoid taking supplements if possible, and try to get B-12 from food sources.

If you develop any side effects from taking vitamin B-12, you can stop taking the supplement and the symptoms should subside.

After this, you’ll need to determine either an appropriate dose or how to get the vitamin B-12 you need from food sources. You can discuss this with your doctor.

Article resources

  • Cyanocobalamin – cyanocobalamin injection. (2023). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a66eb3c4-3e1d-4d49-b963-4fa2334cc9b6
  • Vitamin B12: Fact sheet for health professionals. (2022). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/

Last medically reviewed on June 8, 2023

How we reviewed this article:

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jun 8, 2023

Written By

Emily Cronkleton

Edited By

John Bassham

Medically Reviewed By

Jared Meacham, Ph. D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS

Copy Edited By

Copy Editors

Feb 15, 2023

Written By

Emily Cronkleton

Edited By

Frank Crooks

VIEW ALL HISTORY

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph.D., RD, PMP, MBA, CSCS — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on June 8, 2023

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  • What Is a Vitamin B-12 Test?

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    READ MORE

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Solgar Sublingual Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12) 1000 mcg (60 caps)

  • Suitable for vegans
  • Dietary supplement

    • Methylcobalamin is the active coenzyme form of vitamin B12. The body can readily absorb vitamin B12 in the form of cobalamin, but it then needs to convert it to the coenzyme form, methylcobalamin, in order for it to become metabolically active. This form is biologically identical to the active form of the vitamin that predominates in the body. The ‘ready-to-absorb’ vitamin B12 contained in this formula is available in convenient, optimally dosed lozenges that are also suitable for vegans.

    Suggested Use

    As a dietary supplement for adults, take one (1) capsule daily, preferably with a meal, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner. The capsule should be held under the tongue for 30 seconds before swallowing.

    Other Ingredients

    Mannitol†, silica, vegetable stearic acid, vegetable magnesium stearate, vegetable cellulose, natural cherry flavor.

    †Contains trace amounts of sugar alcohol.

    Warnings

    As with any supplement, consult your healthcare practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medications, or have a medical condition. Keep out of the reach of children. Store in a dry and cool place. Do not use if outer protective film is missing or damaged.

    Additive information
    Serving Size: 1 capsule
    Composition 1 serving % DV
    Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin) 1000 mcg 16667%

    SOLGAR is the world’s leading manufacturer of premium dietary supplements. Products are presented in 60 countries of the world: USA, UK, Italy, France, Spain, Holland, New Zealand, Israel, Russia, etc.

    SOLGAR’s mission is to provide consumers with high quality, innovative, science-based products that bring health and wellness to people around the world.

    Since 1947, SOLGAR has been making premium 100% natural dietary supplements. To date, the assortment includes more than 500 items of vitamins, minerals, medicinal plants, amino acids, probiotics, complexes and special products.

    SOLGAR’s complete plant is located in New Jersey, Leonia, USA.

    The production is the most modern, both in terms of functionality and design.

    The manufacturing facility complies with international GMP manufacturing, environmental protection and quality control standards.

    SOLGAR guarantees quality at all stages of production and distribution.

    Attention to detail and detail in manufacturing has enabled SOLGAR to create its own quality standard, the SOLGAR Gold Standard™.

    For SOLGAR, quality is not a random concept, it is a way of life, a way of thinking. Quality is at the heart of every process, at the heart of every product.

    With its own research and development center, production site and distribution, SOLGAR guarantees the quality of products at all stages of production. In order to maintain the freshness of its products, SOLGAR releases it in small batches and manufactures it to its strict standards, which in most cases exceed the requirements of government regulators.

    Quality Raw Materials
    SOLGAR selects suppliers of the best natural raw materials around the world based on their many years of experience. SOLGAR requires suppliers to provide certificates of analysis to verify the authenticity and good quality of the supplied raw materials.

    Research Center
    The SOLGAR team of scientists is actively engaged in the search for new substances, review of scientific publications and current research. SOLGAR is an integral part of scientific research.

    Quality control
    Our own quality laboratory conducts comprehensive research at the initial stages of production, in the middle and at the stage of obtaining finished products, performing more than 130 control tests. The SOLGAR laboratory is the final authority for products to “bear” the SOLGAR gold label.

    State of the art water treatment system
    SOLGAR uses the latest water treatment system based on the principle of reverse osmosis to achieve the highest degree of water purification.

    State of the art ventilation system
    All air circulating in production areas passes through multiple HEPA filters that capture 99.9% of airborne particles.

    Cleanliness
    After production of each batch, the equipment is completely dismantled and disinfected with gentle natural detergents that do not harm the environment.

    KOSHER Certificate
    SOLGAR is the first company to obtain the KOSHER Certificate for certain products.

    Halal certified
    SOLGAR is HALAL certified for some products.

    Vegetarian capsules
    SOLGAR is one of the first companies to use vegetarian capsules.

    No potential allergens
    In accordance with the Gold Standard™, SOLGAR avoids added sugar, salt, gluten, dairy ingredients. SOLGAR products are free from artificial colors and flavors, GMOs and other potential allergens.

    Premium packaging
    SOLGAR products are packaged in dark colored glass bottles that best protect the products from fluctuations in temperature, light and humidity. Glass bottles can be recycled.

    With its own research and development center, production site and distribution, SOLGAR guarantees the quality of its products at all stages of production.

    SOLGAR uses innovative technology to provide customers with the highest quality products.

    Molecular distillation is the only method known to remove toxic substances, namely heavy metal salts, from fish oil while maintaining the integrity of the fragile structure of omega-3 fatty acids.

    Vacuum drying is a method of preserving all the nutrients, trace elements, vitamins present in plant materials in full for a long time.

    Full Potency Herbs is a method that allows you to use the potential of all plant materials, which ensures the preservation of a whole complex of biologically active substances.

    PHYTO 2 X System is a method of using natural antioxidants (mixtures of natural vitamins E, C, beta-carotene) as preservatives.

    Active ingredient standardization is a method applied to herbal products to determine the exact concentration of the active ingredient in each capsule. SOLGAR standardized herbal products come in green glass bottles.

    Chelated minerals – a special form of minerals in which they are better absorbed and at the same time have a minimal risk of causing unwanted side effects on the body.

    Dual Encapsulation is a technology used in some SOLGAR probiotics, such as Advanced Multibillion Dophilus and Advanced Acidophilus Plus. The use of this technology makes it possible to preserve the viability of probiotic cultures (bifidobacteria and lactobacilli) when passing through the aggressive acidic environment of the stomach. Thanks to the technology of double encapsulation, beneficial bacteria reach the intestines unchanged.

    Nitrogen Protection Technology is a method of replacing oxygen with nitrogen inert gas in vials of liquid content to preserve product freshness. This technology is used in the production of the liquid form of L-carnitine (L-Carnitine Liquid) from SOLGAR.

    How effective is sublingual B12? – Vitamins & Supplements

    Disclaimer

    If you have any medical questions or concerns, contact your physician. Articles in the Health Guide are based on peer-reviewed research and information from medical societies and government agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    When scientists develop drugs and supplements, they must take into account that any pill you swallow has a long and dangerous journey before it enters your bloodstream.

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    Active ingredients must be packaged so that they are protected from your stomach’s excessive acid, as well as any digestive enzymes they encounter along the way. Once a drug passes from the digestive tract into the bloodstream, it must pass through the liver, which can destroy or significantly alter the active ingredients. Each obstacle in the way changes the amount of each active ingredient.

    Vitals

    • Our body needs vitamin B12 to produce red blood cells, DNA and energy. Various forms of supplements are widely available for people with B12 deficiency.
    • Vitamin B12 can be taken sublingually with the supplement placed under the tongue to be absorbed through the mouth.
    • Sublingual B12 may be a particularly useful supplementation method for children or people who have difficulty swallowing tablets.

    This is where sublingual treatment comes in handy. It turns out that the spot under the tongue looks like a hatch. When you put the medicine under the tongue, it goes straight into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive juices and the liver’s filtration system. This is a quick and effective method, but you should not take all the tablets sublingually – that’s why.

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    Can all supplements be taken sublingually?

    Drugs are created in a special way for a specific reason. Therefore, placing a tablet intended to be swallowed under the tongue can be dangerous and even fatal. Also, sometimes drug researchers take advantage of these barriers and create inactive ingredients that must pass through your liver to be activated. This is why you should always take your medications as directed.

    When it comes to vitamin B12, your body needs this essential vitamin to build red blood cells, get energy from the food you eat, support the nervous system, and more. Since our body cannot produce B12 on its own, we must get it from food (such as meat and dairy products), but not everyone gets enough of it. Manufacturers have created products like breakfast cereals and B12-fortified non-dairy milk to solve this problem, but many people are still deficient in B12.

    If your healthcare provider diagnoses you as B12 deficient, they may recommend that you start taking a supplement, which is available in tablet form to be swallowed as well as a sublingual form that you simply put under your tongue. If you are severely deficient, you may be offered an injection of vitamin B12.

    For people with low levels of this important vitamin, supplements are often the first choice. Vitamin B12 exists in many forms, however sublingual B12 (taken under the tongue) is one option (NIH, 2020).

    If you’re looking to take vitamin B12 supplements and are considering the sublingual route, here’s what you need to know.

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    Is sublingual vitamin B12 really more effective than other forms of the vitamin?

    Well, while the sublingual route seems to be more effective in theory, the research doesn’t really support it. Compared to other types of vitamin B12 supplements, the sublingual method does not seem to be more or less effective.

    A 2006 study found no difference in efficacy between sublingual and oral vitamin B12 supplements (Yazaki, 2006). Another study concluded that sublingual and oral methods were equally effective in correcting B12 deficiency in participants (Sharabi, 2003).

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    Comparing the sublingual method with vitamin B12 injections, a study found that taking B12 under the tongue has a higher absorption rate, making it a better option (Bensky, 2019).

    Sublingual vitamin B12 may also be a good option for people with a condition called pernicious anemia. This condition is characterized by a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein that plays a critical role in the body’s absorption of vitamin B12.

    Intrinsic factor is produced by the cells that line your stomach and is one of the main components that determines your ability to consume B12. People with pernicious anemia may benefit from sublingual B12 as they lack intrinsic factor and have many problems absorbing B12 through the digestive system (Ankar, 2020).

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    Why do you need B12 supplements?

    Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a molecule that is not easily absorbed into our systems.

    Studies have shown that even in people without any underlying disease, when a 500 mcg oral supplement is taken, only 10 mcg (or 2%) is absorbed (Carmel, 2008). Increasing your absorption rate is a good way to make sure you’re getting what you need.

    Sublingual supplements are available as tablets or liquid drops. If you’re trying the liquid method, you’ll put the drops under your tongue instead of taking them by mouth, as you would if you were taking oral supplements. The idea behind injecting it under the tongue is that it can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the so-called mucosa in the mouth (UMichigan Health Library, 2018). This method is believed to improve absorption, but studies do not fully support this.

    However, sublingual B12 supplementation is an effective way to replenish B12 levels for people who are deficient in this vitamin. This method can also be helpful for children or people who have trouble swallowing pills.

    How to Use Sublingual B12 Supplements

    If this is your first time taking sublingual B12 (that’s for sure), here’s what you need to know.

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    Sublingual B12 supplements come in two forms: tablets and liquid drops. Whatever you choose, the idea is to place the right amount under the tongue and let it dissolve completely without swallowing (Michigan State University Library of Health, 2018).

    Sublingual tablets are available in 500 or 1000 micrograms. The recommended daily intake for B12 is 2.4 to 2.8 mcg, but its slow absorption rate is the reason for such high supplement doses (NIH, 2020).

    Do vitamin B12 supplements have side effects?

    Vitamin B12 supplements are generally considered safe. Those who are severely deficient may require higher doses of vitamin B12, which can cause side effects including dizziness, headache, restlessness, nausea, and vomiting (StatPearls, 2021). If you are not sure what dosage you need, your doctor can help determine the appropriate dose.

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    Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms

    Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause unpleasant symptoms. Common signs of B12 deficiency include fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, and weight loss (NIH, 2020).

    B12 deficiency – this is more common in older people According to past surveys, approximately 6% of people aged 60 and over do not get enough vitamin B12. The prevalence of this deficiency also increases with age (Allen, 2009).

    Because B12 is critical for the proper functioning of the nervous system, its deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms such as confusion, poor memory, depression, and difficulty maintaining balance (Serin, 2019). These symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions or vitamin deficiencies, so it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

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    Who is most at risk for B12 deficiency?

    Some people are more prone to B12 deficiency than others. People at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency usually have conditions that prevent the absorption of B12 from their gastrointestinal system.

    Here are some of the groups that may be more at risk for B12 deficiency (NIH, 2020):

    • Patients with atrophic gastritis: B12.
    • People with pernicious anemia: Individuals with pernicious anemia may also be at risk of B12 deficiency. People with this disease lack the intrinsic factor we mentioned earlier, which is one of the key proteins responsible for B12 absorption (O’Leary, 2010).
    • People with gastrointestinal problems: People with problems with the stomach or small intestines may have a harder time absorbing vitamin B12 from food. In addition, patients who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery may be at risk of B12 deficiency due to malabsorption.
    • Vegetarians and vegans: Because most foods that contain B12 are animal products such as meat, eggs and dairy products, vegetarians and vegans are at greater risk of developing B12 deficiency.

    Other sources of vitamin B12

    Sublingual vitamin B12 is not the only solution if you are deficient in vitamin B12. The following are some of the main ways to get more vitamin B12 in your body:

    • Diet : Animal products such as poultry, meat, fish, eggs and milk contain vitamin B12. Foods such as cooked shellfish and beef contain much more than the recommended daily amount of vitamin B12. Trout, salmon, tuna, and fortified yeast will also give you the amount you need. Vitamin B12 is not normally found in plants, so vegans and vegetarians may need to look for fortified breakfast cereals containing B12 or opt for conventional supplements (NIH, 2020).
    • Oral supplements : Cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are popular types of B12 supplements. Cyanocobalamin is the synthetic version of B12 while methylcobalamin is the natural form (Al Almin, 2021). Both are available in the form of tablets, capsules, and gummies for oral use, which can be purchased at most pharmacies.
    • B12 Injection: Intramuscular injection of vitamin B12 is one of the most common forms of administration, but should be performed by a healthcare professional (Shipton, 2015). Intranasal treatment (using nasal spray) is also prescribed B12. available by prescription (Andrès, 2018).

    If you think you have a B12 deficiency, talk to your doctor to discuss what treatments are available to you. Rest assured, there are many solutions for B12 deficiency, whether it be sublingual/oral pills, diet, or injections.

    Recommendations

    1. Al-Amin, ASM, Gupta, V. (2021). Vitamin B12 (cobalamin). StatPearls. Stat Pearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559132/
    2. Allen, L. H. (2009). How common is vitamin B-12 deficiency?. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 89(2), 693S–6S. DOI: 10.3945 / ajcn.2008.26947A. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19116323/
    3. Andrés, E., Zulfikar, A. A., Serray, C., Vogel, T., and Kaltenbach, G. (2018) . A systematic review and pragmatic clinical approach to oral and nasal treatment with vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency associated with gastrointestinal disorders. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 7(10), 304. DOI: 10.3390/jcm7100304. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6210286/
    4. Ankar A., ​​Kumar A. (2020). Vitamin B12 deficiency. StatPearls. Stat Pearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441923/
    5. Bensky, M. J., Ayalon-Dangur, I., Ayalon-Dangur, R., Naamani, E., Gafter- Gwili, A., Koren, G. , & Shiber, S. (2019). Comparison of sublingual and intramuscular vitamin B12 administration for the treatment of patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. Drug Delivery and Translational Research, 9(3), 625–630. DOI: 10.1007 / s13346-018-00613-y. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30632091/
    6. Carmel, R. (2008). How do I treat cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency. Blood, 112(6), 2214–2221. DOI: 10.1182 / blood-2008-03-040253. Retrieved from https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/112/6/2214/24841/How-I-treat-cobalamin-vitamin-B12-deficiency
    7. Cyanocobalamin (oral). (2018, July 16). University of Michigan Health Library. Retrieved February 10, 2021, from https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/d00413a
    8. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2020). Vitamin B12. Retrieved February 10, 2021, from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/#h5
    9. O’Leary, F., & Samman, S. (2010). Vitamin B12 in health and disease.