Do you also feel tired and lifeless all the time? Or do you feel like your limbs are tingling? One reason for these things could be a decrease in your vitamin B12 levels. Vitamin B12 is essential for our body, especially our nervous system, and for making red blood cells. So, an easy way that doctors recommend for those who are deficient in this vitamin is to put these vitamin B12 drops under the tongue. Let's talk about this in detail today.
What are these vitamin B12 drops?
Simply put, this is a liquid containing vitamin B12. It is used by placing a few drops under the tongue. This vitamin is then absorbed directly into the body through the fine blood vessels under the tongue. This method is often used for people who cannot get enough vitamin B12 from food, or for those who cannot absorb vitamin B12 properly due to certain problems with the stomach and intestines.
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for the healthy functioning of our nervous system and the production of red blood cells . A deficiency in this nutrient can lead to various health problems, such as anemia and nerve disorders.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to know your complete medical history. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about them.
- If you have a rare eye disease called Leber's disease .
- If you have low levels of iron or folic acid in your blood.
- If you have a condition called megaloblastic anemia .
- If you have an allergic reaction to vitamin B12, cobalt , or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
It is very important to give this information to your doctor, because only then can he or she provide you with the most appropriate and safest treatment.
How should I use this medicine?
It's very easy to use. However, you should only use it exactly as directed on the label and as directed by your doctor.
This is usually used like this:
1. Take the prescribed amount of medicine drops into the dropper.
2. Lift your tongue and put the medicine drops under it.
3. Hold the medicine under your tongue for about a minute without swallowing it. This is when the medicine is absorbed into the body.
4. Then act normally.
This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food. Do not take more than the prescribed amount or more often than prescribed.
What if you give it to children?
This medicine is sometimes given to children. But a doctor should decide about it. Therefore, do not give this to children without the doctor's advice.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Otherwise, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible.
Remember, this medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give it to anyone else just because they have the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once for any reason.
What are the possible interactions with this medication?
Some things can affect how this medicine works. For example:
- Alcohol
- Colchicine (a medicine for gout)
This list is not complete. Therefore, be sure to give your doctor a complete list of all medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements you take. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Side effects and things to be aware of
While taking the medicine, see your doctor at regular intervals to check your condition. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor.
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| 🚨 Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin conditions such as rashes, itching, hives. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. (This is an emergency) |
| 🩺 Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Digestive system problems | Diarrhea, Nausea |
| General inconveniences | Headache, Fatigue |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, please tell your doctor.
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Keep it safe, out of the reach of children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Never use after the expiration date .
When disposing of expired or unwanted medications, consult your doctor. Sometimes the medication package may have instructions on how to dispose of them. If it is safe to throw away, remove the medication from the bottle, mix it with used coffee grounds, a little soil, or cat litter, and place it in a tightly sealed bag and throw it in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- Vitamin B12 is essential for your nervous system and red blood cells.
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and other medications you are taking.
- You should use the medicine exactly as the doctor tells you. Place it under your tongue and hold it for a while.
- If you miss a dose, never take two doses at once.
- If you suspect an overdose, call the National Poisons Information Center immediately or go to the ETU.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms, such as facial swelling, seek medical advice immediately.
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