For patients seeking weight loss who request B12 injections, GPs should: Assess for genuine deficiency through appropriate blood tests rather than empirical treatment Provide education about the lack of evidence supporting B12 for weight loss in non-deficient individuals Explore underlying concerns about weight and energy levels, addressing these through appropriate channels Signpost to evidence-based resources such as NHS weight management services according to local pathways Patients should contact their GP if they experience unexplained fatigue, neurological symptoms (numbness, tingling, balance problems), or signs of anaemia (pallor, breathlessness, palpitations), as these may indicate B12 deficiency requiring investigation
Chen, W., Chang, B., Li, L
A lack of Vitamin B12 can result in nerve damage, which can worsen sciatic pain
For people following a plant-based diet that choose to exclude animal products, it can be difficult to get enough B12
The prognosis for vitamin B12 deficiency in dogs is generally very positive once the condition is identified and treatment begins
