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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 5 of 5. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by dreamboat_annie on February 23, 2007, at 22:41:17
So, I have been experiencing extreme fatigue since trying to recover from a really bad flu. Anyway, when I had to have a chest x-ray done, the doctor also ordered some bloodwork, and it turns out my iron is really, really low (which could explain the fatigue). So, because I have responded poorly to oral supplementation in the past when deficient, he will be doing a series of iron injections to bring the iron back up.
Anyway, I was in for a second shot today, and we were talking about my level of fatigue and my just not feeling like myself, and HE asks if I have ever had B-12 injections. I said no because I am not deficient, although my levels are on the low side. Anyway, he says - I think B-12 injections would help your energy levels and that they have helped a number of his patients with fatigue. He also says that B-12 injections are not dangerous since any excess if excreted. So, I'm like - uh, ok. Well, he writes a script and says to come back for a shot in the next few days. I am a bit dumbfounded by this, but am willing to try.
Has anyone ever heard of a family doctor suggesting on their own a treatment like B-12 injections for continuing fatigue? Can the injections help? Is my doctor a crack-pot LOL?
Just not sure what to think about this . . .
Posted by nolvas on February 24, 2007, at 1:37:48
In reply to Not sure what to make of this - Is my doctor a nut, posted by dreamboat_annie on February 23, 2007, at 22:41:17
No he's not mad, although the cause of your fatigue could easily be more complex than taking Vitamin B12. There are many factors that could cause the problem.
Adachi, S., et al. Enteral vitamin B12 supplements reverse postgastrectomy B12 deficiency. Ann Surg. 232:199-201, 2000.
This study demonstrated that fatigue is one of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
· Ellis, F. R., et al. A pilot study of vitamin B12 in the treatment of tiredness. British Journal of Nutrition. 30:277, 1973.
This trial (double-blind, crossover) involved 28 subjects who complained of fatigue. Prior to the study, all subjects had normal levels of hemoglobin and vitamin B12. Administration of vitamin B12 injections (5 mg of hydroxocobalamine administered intramuscularly twice per week) resulted in improved appetite, mood, energy, sleep, less fatigue and a general feeling of well-being. After the cessation of vitamin B12 supplementation, these effects persisted for at least four weeks.
· Stabler, S. P. Vitamin B12 deficiency in older people: improving diagnosis and preventing disability. J Am Ger Soc. 46:1317-1319, 1998.
Other Professional Journals
· Gaby, A. R. Vitamin B12 injections for tiredness - literature review & commentary. Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients. February-March 2004.
Laypersons’ Publications
· Mitchell, T. Vitamin B12: surprising new findings. Life Extension. 6(12), 2000.
Fatigue has been found to be one of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
· Sardi, B. Fighting fatigue: iron overload vs. anaemia. Functional Foods & Nutraceuticals. February 2002.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause fatigue.
Posted by madeline on February 24, 2007, at 14:58:26
In reply to Not sure what to make of this - Is my doctor a nut, posted by dreamboat_annie on February 23, 2007, at 22:41:17
Well, are you anemic?
Posted by Tom Twilight on February 24, 2007, at 15:13:54
In reply to Re: Not sure what to make of this - Is my doctor a nut » dreamboat_annie, posted by madeline on February 24, 2007, at 14:58:26
I'm really sensitive to B vits, & I've heard that excess B12 can cause panic attacks!
I'd be a bit careful with this one if I were you
Posted by nolvas on February 24, 2007, at 16:57:45
In reply to Re: Not sure what to make of this - Is my doctor a, posted by Tom Twilight on February 24, 2007, at 15:13:54
Conversely Vitamin B12 especially when administered concurrently with Folic Acid may help to control Panic Disorder. Although this to my knowledge hasn't been studied it's anecdotal.
This is the end of the thread.
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