Is NOW Vitamin B12 Safe?
Generic: methylcobalamin
Generally yes, NOW Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) is considered very safe for most people, especially when taken to correct a deficiency. As a water-soluble vitamin, any excess not needed by the body is typically flushed out through urine, minimizing the risk of accumulation.
Who Should Avoid or Consult First
- People with Leber's disease (an inherited eye condition) should avoid B12 supplementation as it can worsen the condition.
- Individuals with a known allergy to cobalt or vitamin B12, though this is very rare.
- Those with polycythemia vera (a blood disorder) should consult a doctor, as B12 can affect blood cell counts and monitoring may be necessary.
Common Side Effects
- Mild diarrhea or upset stomach (rare)
- Itching or rash (very rare)
- Headache (very rare)
Interactions to Watch For
This common diabetes medication can reduce your body's ability to absorb vitamin B12, potentially leading to a deficiency.
Medications that reduce stomach acid, like omeprazole or famotidine, can hinder B12 absorption from food and supplements.
This antibiotic can interfere with the body's response to B12 supplementation, especially in people with anemia.
Repeated exposure to nitrous oxide (e.g., during some medical procedures) can inactivate vitamin B12 in the body.
People Also Ask
Can I take B12 every day?
Yes, it is generally safe to take Vitamin B12 daily, especially if you have a diagnosed deficiency or are at risk. Your body uses what it needs, and the excess is excreted, making daily supplementation well-tolerated for most individuals.
Is B12 safe during pregnancy?
Yes, Vitamin B12 is essential for a healthy pregnancy and fetal development. It is often included in prenatal vitamins. However, always discuss any new supplements with your doctor or obstetrician during pregnancy.
What happens if I take too much B12?
Taking too much B12 is rarely harmful because it's a water-soluble vitamin. Your body typically excretes any excess through urine. Very high doses might rarely cause mild side effects like diarrhea or headache, but serious toxicity is extremely uncommon.
Can children take Vitamin B12?
Yes, children can take Vitamin B12, and it's crucial for their growth and development. The appropriate dosage depends on their age and any specific needs. Always consult a pediatrician before giving supplements to children.
Bottom Line
NOW Vitamin B12 is a safe and effective supplement for most people, particularly those with deficiencies or dietary restrictions. If you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider to ensure it's right for you.
References
- 1.FDA Drug Label — Professional Weight Support
FDA DailyMed: Professional Weight Support · FDA
- 2.FDA Drug Label — B Complex Liquescence
FDA DailyMed: B Complex Liquescence · FDA
- 3.B12 as a Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Review.
Julian T, Syeed R, Glascow N, et al., Nutrients, 2020 · PubMed
- 4.Efficacy and Safety of Mecobalamin on Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Sawangjit R, Thongphui S, Chaichompu W, et al., Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 2020 · PubMed
- 5.Cobalamin C defect: natural history, pathophysiology, and treatment.
Martinelli D, Deodato F, Dionisi-Vici C, Journal of inherited metabolic disease, 2011 · PubMed
- 6.Metformin-Induced Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Patients With Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Tiwari A, Kumar Singh R, Satone PD, et al., Cureus, 2023 · PubMed
Want the full pharmacist analysis?
See full review of NOW Vitamin B12Educational content based on FDA labeling, published research, and pharmacist review. Not a substitute for individualized medical advice.