The main cause of vitamin B12 deficiency is often malabsorption, especially due to autoimmune conditions like Pernicious Anemia, where the stomach can't produce intrinsic factor needed for B12 absorption, or gastrointestinal issues like Crohn's, celiac disease, or stomach/bowel surgery. Other significant causes include a diet lacking B12 (common in vegans) or certain medications, though absorption problems are the most frequent culprit for severe deficiency.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause symptoms that affect your brain and nervous system (neurological symptoms), including: numbness. muscle weakness. psychological problems, which can range from mild depression or anxiety, to confusion and dementia.
Vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia is usually treated with injections of vitamin B12, called hydroxocobalamin. At first, you'll have these injections every other day for 2 weeks or until your symptoms have started improving. Your GP or nurse will give the injections.
No significant interactions are reported between amlodipine and Vitamin B12 specifically, but multivitamins with minerals might decrease amlodipine's effectiveness, so always tell your doctor about all supplements, including B12, as they can affect your blood pressure and medication response. While B12 itself seems safe, other supplements like St. John's Wort can interact, and potential B vitamin effects on blood pressure meds aren't fully understood, making professional advice crucial.
Taking doses of vitamin B-12 might cause: Headache. Nausea. Diarrhea.
The worst symptoms of B12 deficiency involve severe neurological damage, including severe memory loss, confusion, dementia, psychosis, hallucinations, balance problems, trouble walking, and irreversible nerve damage (neuropathy), alongside serious mental health issues like severe depression or irritability, with physical signs including extreme fatigue, pale skin, and a sore, smooth tongue. These severe cognitive and neurological issues are the most concerning because they can become permanent if left untreated.
Medications known to interact with Vitamin B12
Common side effects
Amlodipine interactions with supplements. Amlodipine may interact with fish oil supplements, which could lower blood pressure when used at high doses. Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure. Combining these products may lower your blood pressure even further.
Diet. Some people can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency as a result of not getting enough vitamin B12 from their diet. A diet that includes meat, fish and dairy products usually provides enough vitamin B12, but people who do not regularly eat these foods can become deficient.
People need vitamin B-12 for the brain to work well. If not treated, vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to issues with the nerves, brain or spinal cord. These might include lasting tingling in the hands and feet or trouble with balance.
The best form of B12 is often considered methylcobalamin, as it's a naturally occurring, active form the body uses immediately, though adenosylcobalamin is also an active form, with a combination often recommended for better results, especially for deficiency or absorption issues, while cyanocobalamin, a cheaper synthetic option, is effective but requires conversion and is less ideal for some. For general supplementation, natural forms like methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin are preferred for better retention.
B12 deficiency can trigger specific food cravings, most notably for meat, fish, or eggs, as the body seeks animal-based sources to replenish the vitamin, especially in those on vegetarian/vegan diets or older adults. While cravings for sugary or salty foods can also signal general B-vitamin issues, the distinct urge for protein-rich animal products is a key indicator, but professional testing is crucial for confirmation.
Key points about vitamin B12 deficiency anemia
Symptoms include weak muscles, numbness, trouble walking, nausea, weight loss, irritability, fatigue, and increased heart rate. Treatment may include vitamin B12 supplements. It is also important to eat a well-balanced diet.
If you're at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency, the following can provide some protection: Supplements. Even the lowest doses in B12 supplements are many times the recommended dietary allowance. Doses up to 1,000 mcg, though unnecessary, aren't harmful.
Outcome and Management. The severity of liver injury from amlodipine ranges from mild and transient serum enzyme elevations to self-limited jaundice. Complete recovery is expected after stopping the drug and recovery is usually rapid (4 to 8 weeks).
5 of the worst blood pressure medications
Who may not be able to take amlodipine
Before starting the Vitamin injections I will make sure to tell my Physician if I am pregnant, lactating or have any of the following conditions.
That said, there are no known risks of taking Vitamin B in combination with blood pressure medication, as long as you are treating a vitamin deficit and not going above the recommended daily dose.
Neurobion Forte – A well-known brand combining B12 with other B vitamins for nerve health. Bevon Capsules – Contains B12 along with antioxidants and vitamins for overall energy support. Mecobalamin Tablets (Generic B12) – Affordable and equally effective option available at Medkart.
Cutaneous manifestations associated with vitamin B12 deficiency are skin hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair changes. A diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency is often overlooked in its early stages because these signs are not specific to vitamin B12 deficiency alone.
Take over-the-counter medicines
Causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency