Advice for those with vitamin B12 deficiency during COVID-19

In light of the current Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), there are many groups of people who are classified as vulnerable during this time due to age, situation or health complications. One of these groups is those who struggle to absorb vitamin B12 and therefore require injections as a form of treatment.  

Anyone who has undergone bariatric surgery procedures, such as gastric bypass, duodenal switch or sleeve gastrectomy, will have a reduced absorption of vitamin B12 and therefore have an increased risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that keeps the bodies nerve and blood cells healthy and helps to make DNA, the genetic material in all cells. Vitamin B12 also helps prevent a type of megaloblastic anaemia that makes people tired and weak.

Hydrochloric acid in the stomach separates Vitamin B12 from the protein to which B12 is attached in food. Vitamin B12 then combines with a protein made by the stomach called intrinsic factor and is absorbed by the body. If the body can’t make enough intrinsic factor this results in pernicious anaemia or if left untreated irreversible neuropathy.

Due to an increased pressure on health services, many people within this vulnerable group are currently unable to access these timely vitamin B12 injections, which is understandably leading to anxiety for many. As a result, The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) has put together some recommended advice for those who have undergone bariatric procedures, which can be followed as an interim measure:

People with a history of suggestive neurological symptoms

Continue with scheduled 3-monthly vitamin B12 injections where possible. An alternative is to prescribe oral cyanocobalamin (1,000 micrograms/day)

People without a history of suggestive neurological symptoms

Prescribe oral cyanocobalamin (1,000 micrograms/day) 

Where prescription of oral cyanocobalamin is not possible

Oral vitamin B12 supplements can be purchased at most supermarkets, pharmacy or health food stores

It’s important to note that this guidance is just an interim measure and 3-monthly vitamin B12 injections should recommence within 3 months or earlier if practically possible.

For any further advice on vitamin B12 during COVID-19, visit The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) website.