Who may benefit

This service may be suitable for adults (18 years and over) who:

• Have been diagnosed with Vitamin B12 deficiency (e.g. pernicious anaemia)
• Follow a vegetarian or vegan diet
• Have undergone gastric or bariatric surgery
• Experience malabsorption due to certain medications or conditions (e.g. metformin, Crohn’s disease)
• Wish to maintain healthy energy and metabolism levels

If you have a recent Vitamin B12 blood test below 150 pmol/L, please consult your GP for NHS management.

Who cannot receive this service

You will not be eligible for a Vitamin B12 injection if you:

• Are under 18 years old
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have allergies to hydroxocobalamin, cobalamin derivatives, or cobalt
• Have Leber’s hereditary optic atrophy or certain heart conditions
• Have received a Vitamin B12 injection within the last 2 months for general wellbeing

What to expect

• Your suitability will be assessed by a trained pharmacist before the injection.
• The injection is given into the upper arm (deltoid muscle).
• Mild redness or tenderness at the injection site is possible.
• Allergic reactions are very rare — medical support is available on-site if needed.

Dose schedule

• Deficiency treatment: 1mg three times a week for two weeks, then 1mg every 2–3 months
• Maintenance / wellbeing: 1mg every 3 months

Important information

• An appointment is required for all Vitamin B12 injections.
• Pharmacist discretion applies — the service may not be provided if it is not clinically appropriate.
• Any adverse reactions should be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

For more information, please speak with a member of our pharmacy team.