It is very important to know how medications affect vitamin B12 in the body, as vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for the proper functioning of the body.
It assists in the making of red blood cells supports brain function, and keeps nerves healthy.
Medications can deplete your B12? Over the years of taking them, you could develop a deficiency without realizing it.
This article describes how medications affect vitamin B12, the symptoms of deficiency, and what you can do to maintain healthy levels.
How Medications Affect Vitamin B12 Status
Some medications affect how your body absorbs or uses vitamin B12. You need to learn how medications affect vitamin B12 and the risks if you regularly take any of these drugs.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
Medications such as omeprazole, pantoprazole, and esomeprazole, called proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), are commonly used to treat acid reflux and stomach ulcers.
It works by lowering stomach acid, which aids digestion. The problem is B12 from food requires stomach acid for proper absorption.
But without sufficient acid you cannot extract B12, and so your levels will plummet over time.
Metformin
Metformin is a widely used drug for type 2 diabetes. It can also help regulate blood sugar, but research demonstrates that long-term use can decrease B12 levels.
Scientists think metformin changes the way the intestines absorb B12. The risk increases if you are on metformin for many years without monitoring your B12 levels.
Antacids & H2 Blockers
Drugs such as ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid) also lower the stomach’s acidity the same way PPIs do but in a different manner.
They’re commonly taken for heartburn, indigestion, and ulcers. And since stomach acid is necessary for B12 absorption, long-term use of these medications can also result in deficiency — similar to PPIs.
Signs Of A Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A B12 deficiency and how medications affect vitamin B12 is not something that occurs overnight. It develops over months, even years, making it easy to miss. Here are some symptoms to look out for:
Fatigue & Weakness
Vitamin B12 is important for producing red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen in the body.
If your levels are low, fewer red blood cells are produced. This can result in fatigue, weakness, and exhaustion even after a good night’s sleep.
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage is among the most serious consequences of B12 deficiency. You might experience tingling or numbness in your hands and feet.
Others may experience balance issues or memory problems. Untreated nerve damage can become permanent.
Digestive Problems
Low levels of B12 can also impact your digestive tract. Others complain of nausea, bloating, constipation, or even loss of appetite.
If you tend to have digestive problems, it may be worth checking your B12 levels.
How To Keep Your B12 Levels Up
The good news is that if you’re taking medications that lower B12 levels, don’t worry. There are ways to maintain your levels and avoid how medications affect vitamin B12 in your body.
Eat B12-Rich Foods
Diet is one of the easiest ways to preserve B12. Among some of the most rich sources of B12, we have:
- Meat (beef, chicken, pork)
- Fish (salmon, tuna, sardines)
- Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Eggs
- Fortified cereals and fortified plant milks
If you eat vegan or vegetarian, fortified foods or supplements are critical because plant foods don’t naturally contain B12.
Consider B12 Supplements
Supplements will help if you’re at risk of deficiency. There are different types:
- Sublingual B12: A sublingual tablet dissolves under the tongue. It’s a top choice for people who have difficulty absorbing B12 from food.
- B12 Injections: The doctor might also recommend B12 injections if your deficiency is severe. These skip the digestive system, entering directly into the bloodstream.
- Oral B12 Supplements: Available over the counter, these supplements work well for those who can properly absorb B12.
Monitor Your Levels
Among the best ways to avoid how medications affect vitamin B12 levels in our body is to monitor B12 levels regularly.
If you’re on PPIs, metformin, or over-the-counter antacids for the long term, have your B12 levels checked by your doctor.
A straightforward blood test can demonstrate whether or not you need supplements.
It is especially true for older adults, diabetics, and those with digestive conditions like Crohn’s disease.
Final Thoughts
What a lot of people don’t know is how medications affect vitamin b12 and reduce its levels in your body.
If you use PPIs, metformin, or antacids, watch for the symptoms of deficiency.
Fatigue, nerve problems, and digestive issues might be warning signs. So eat sufficient foods high in B12, take supplements if needed, and get recurring blood tests.
Being proactive can help you avoid deficiency and keep your body operating in tip-top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Are The First Signs Of B12 Deficiency?
The first signs of how medications affect vitamin B12 and its deficiency often include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
Some people also experience tingling in their hands and feet, dizziness, or trouble concentrating. As the deficiency worsens, it may lead to memory problems and difficulty balancing.
Which Medications Lower Vitamin B12 levels?
Several medications can lower B12 levels, including:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Omeprazole, pantoprazole, and esomeprazole
- Metformin: A common diabetes medication
- Antacids & H2 Blockers: Ranitidine, famotidine, and long-term use of over-the-counter antacids
If you take any of these medications, it’s a good idea to check your B12 levels regularly.
What’s The Best Way To Supplement B12?
The best way to supplement B12 depends on your needs:
- Sublingual (under-the-tongue) tablets: These are effective and easy to use.
- Oral supplements: Great for people who don’t have severe deficiencies.
- B12 injections: Recommended for those with absorption issues or severe deficiencies.
Your doctor can help you choose the best option based on your health condition.
You can have a consultation at Welltopia to find out the best plan tailored to your needs here!
How Long Does It Take To Correct A B12 Deficiency?
The time it takes to correct how medications affect vitamin B12 and its deficiency depends on how severe it is. If you’re taking B12 supplements, mild deficiencies can improve in a few weeks.
Severe cases, especially those needing injections, may take a few months to fully recover. Some nerve damage caused by long-term deficiency may take even longer to heal or may not be completely reversible.
