Vitamin B12 is a nutrient your body needs to form red blood cells, create DNA, and keep your nerves working correctly. But what happens when you’re not getting enough B12?
That’s where B12 shots come in. B12 injections can help boost your energy levels, sharpen your focus, and even improve your mood. But how long do B12 shots last, and what factors affect how long they’ll work for you?
What are B12 shots and why are they used?
Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that’s essential for healthy neurological function, production of red blood cells, and synthesis of DNA. Your body can’t produce B12, so you have to get it from food sources or supplements.
B12 shots bypass your digestive system to deliver the vitamin directly to your bloodstream for fast absorption. Some people aren’t able to absorb B12 effectively from oral supplements because of digestive problems or because they don’t have enough intrinsic factor, a protein that’s needed to absorb B12 in the small intestine.
The two main types of B12 injections are:
- Cyanocobalamin, a synthetic form of B12
- Hydroxocobalamin, a natural form of B12
How long do B12 shots last?
The effects of a B12 shot can potentially last for weeks or even months. However, most people find that the benefits begin to wane after one or two weeks.
How long the shot lasts depends on a number of things, including your current B12 levels, your lifestyle, and your body’s specific needs.
Many people report feeling more energetic within 24 to 72 hours of getting a B12 shot.
Vitamin B12 is absorbed very quickly. Studies show that the body absorbs nearly half of an injected dose of B12 within 24 hours. Other research found that between 50% and 98% of an injected dose showed up in the urine within 48 hours.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of B12 Shots
The duration of a B12 shot’s effects isn’t the same for everyone. Several factors can influence how long the benefits last.
Individual B12 Levels
If you’re starting from a point of deficiency, you’ll likely need more frequent shots initially to build up your levels. Your body stores B12, mostly in the liver, where about half of your body’s B12 supply is kept.
Lifestyle Factors
A balanced diet is important for the best B12 absorption and benefit. Make sure you’re eating foods rich in B12, like meat, poultry, and fish. Also, your folic acid intake can influence how well you retain B12.
Regular alcohol consumption can also affect how long B12 stays in your system, so you may need to monitor your dosage and frequency more closely if you drink alcohol regularly.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can impact B12 levels. Liver disorders can impair B12 storage, while gastrointestinal issues can affect B12 absorption. Age-related changes in stomach acid production can also play a role in how well you absorb B12.
Other Factors
Your individual tendencies toward developing certain diseases, along with some medications, can also affect B12 absorption.
Benefits and Potential Side Effects of B12 Shots
Vitamin B12 shots are often touted for their ability to improve energy levels, mood, and cognitive function, as well as supporting metabolism, nervous system health, and even the condition of your skin, hair, and nails.
Potential Benefits
- Sustained energy without the crash you get from caffeine
- Improved mood
- Sharper focus and healthier brain function
- Metabolism support for weight management
- Long-term nervous system health
- Healthier skin, hair, and nails
Potential Side Effects
Vitamin B12 shots are generally considered low-risk, especially when administered by trained professionals.
Overdosing on B12 is rare because it’s a water-soluble vitamin, so any excess is easily flushed out of your system.
Maintaining healthy B12 levels
To maintain healthy B12 levels, it’s important to get personalized advice from your doctor, including how often to get B12 shots. For general wellness, a B12 shot every two to four weeks is often enough.
The dose you need will depend on how low your B12 levels are. Some general guidelines:
- People with absorption problems, pregnant women, and those with mild deficiencies often benefit from 1000 mcg doses.
- Those with severe deficiencies may need 5000 mcg doses.
You might also consider taking B12 supplements to keep your levels in a healthy range.
Wrapping Up
How long a B12 shot lasts depends on the dosage, your metabolism, and why you’re getting the shots in the first place. If you’re considering B12 shots, talk with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your needs and recommend the right dosage and schedule.
Remember, B12 shots work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep habits can help you get the most out of your B12 supplementation.