Private Vitamin B12 Injection
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Book online at a pharmacy in 15 towns in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
About Vitamin B12 Injection
Vitamin B12 deficiency means there is not enough of this vitamin in your body. It can cause tiredness, breathlessness, pale skin and pins and needles. A pharmacist can check if B12 injections (hydroxocobalamin) are suitable for you and give them.
Who it’s for
- Adults aged 18 and over
- You have symptoms of B12 deficiency, or a blood test has shown it
- Not suitable if you are allergic to hydroxocobalamin or cobalt, or have Leber's disease (an inherited eye condition)
- Contact your GP practice if you have symptoms of B12 deficiency, so they can do blood tests
Common questions
How much does it cost?
Each pharmacy sets its own price. You can see it when you choose a pharmacy.
How often will I need injections?
You usually start with a few injections a week. As your symptoms get better, you might only need one every 2 to 3 months.
What are the side effects?
Common side effects include pain, swelling or itching where you had the injection, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, headaches, dizziness and hot flushes. Your pee may turn pink or red. This is harmless.
What causes B12 deficiency?
A common cause is pernicious anaemia. Other causes include not eating enough foods with B12, stomach or bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease, and some medicines.
Can I get B12 injections on the NHS?
Your GP will do blood tests to find out if you have a B12 deficiency. B12 injections are the usual NHS treatment.
More information
- ScotlandNHS inform: Vitamin B12 deficiency (opens in a new tab)
- Northern Irelandnidirect: B vitamins (opens in a new tab)
- England and WalesNHS: Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia (opens in a new tab)
Sources: NHS inform: Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia, NHS: Hydroxocobalamin.
How it works
Choose a service
Pick the service you need.
Find a pharmacy
Enter your town or postcode to see pharmacies near you that book it online.
Book a time
Choose a day and time, answer the pharmacy’s questions and send your booking. The pharmacy confirms it by email.