Saudi Arabia
A 33-year-old male asked:

I've deficiency in b12 which was corrected after oral 500mcg tab.levels came down after stopping the supplement.my intrinsic factor was negative. all blood and stool tests are normal with no anemia. not vegan. can this be absorption issue or dietary?

2 doctor answers2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Gurmukh Singh
Pathology 51 years experience
If taking B12 by mouth corrected the deficiency it is not due to problem with absorption. Taking B12 orally will not do any harm. Wish you good health!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Donald Colantino
Internal Medicine 63 years experience
I assume you have no intrinsic factor antibodies and thus don't have pernicious anemia with no need to perform a Schilling's test. Your need to continue taking vitamin B12 supplements may be a dietary issue ( think meat,eggs) or caused by some intestinal issue but you don't mention any intestinal disorders. B12 deficiency can cause neuropathy before onset of anemia so continue your supplement.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jul 3, 2022

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.