Vitamin B12 deficiency: THESE common medications are the hidden cause, top doc says

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient crucial to keeping your blood and nerve cells healthy. This nutrient is vital in the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material in all of the cells.

As the body doesn't make vitamin B12 on its own, you have to get it from your diet or supplements. Despite its crucial role in the body, vitamin B12 deficiency is common, and Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a top neurologist from India, has pointed out some culprits behind it. The doctor revealed that some common medications can hinder the absorption of vitamin B12, leading to deficiency. Take a look.

Common medication linked to vitamin B12 deficiency

Dr. Kumar revealed that two common medications could silently lower the body’s vitamin B12 levels over time.

If left unchecked, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to severe neurological damage, including permanent nerve and brain issues.Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes and sometimes for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other metabolic disorders, has been linked to low levels of vitamin B12. “Metformin can cause reduced absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine and thereby cause B12 deficiency,” the neurologist said in a video shared on YouTube.

This could happen if the patient is using Metformin long-term or at high doses.

The second culprit is proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are commonly used to treat acidity, reflux, and peptic ulcers. These include drugs like omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, and esomeprazole. “It causes a reduction in the gastric acid secretion. So the B12 that is found in the food is not release,d and again so there is less absorption of B12,” the doctor explained. “So if a person is on long-term metformin therapy or therapy with PPIs for acidity, one should watch for symptoms of B12 deficiency, which can be fatigue, tingling, numbness, or cognitive changes like forgetfulness, psychiatric disturbances,” he added.

Who is at risk?

The neurologist added that people who have been taking Metformin or PPIs for more than 2 years are at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Large surveys from the United States and the UK suggest that 6% of adults over 60 are vitamin B12 deficient, and nearly 20% have borderline levels.

The risk increases with age. Vitamin B12 deficiency is far more common in developing countries.Dr. Kumar stressed that older adults and those on a vegetarian diet are more at risk. Low intake of animal-based foods can cause a deficiency. This is because dietary sources such as meat, eggs, and dairy products are rich in vitamin B12.

Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency

Other symptoms include:

How to stay safe?

Dr. Kumar emphasized that taking a vitamin B12 blood test (with the approval of your doctor) every 1–2 years, especially if you are on these drugs for a long time, can prevent vitamin B12 deficiency.

“If any of these symptoms occur, the B12 level should be tested. Even if someone is totally normal, at least once in one to two years, the B12 levels can be tested. And once you test it, it can be easily treated,” he added.

Bottom line

The neurologist emphasized that Metformin and PPIs are highly effective and safe when monitored; however, ensure to check your vitamin B12 levels regularly. “If you are on these medications, do not stop them.

Talk to your doctors for further information,” he said. Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making changes to your medication or supplement routine. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.