U.S. doctors online nowAsk doctors free
San Jose, CA
A 33-year-old female asked:

If you have a vitamin b12 deficiency how long does it take to replenish it with over the counter supplements?

1 doctor answer1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Daniel Ziegler
Emergency Medicine 32 years experience
Depends: Depends on why you have a B12 deficiency in the first place. Some people, either from gastric bypass surgery or other reasons dont produce intrinsic factor which is made in the stomach and is necessary for us to absorb B12 that we have taken orally. In those cases it takes a shot. In any case 1% of oral B12 is passively absorbed. Once absorbed our bodies are efficient replenishing and storing it.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jun 29, 2019

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.