Learn where to self-administer a B12 shot and how to do it painlessly This article was medically reviewed by Shari Forschen, NP, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Amber Crain
Two structural modifications (C18 fatty acid chain enabling albumin binding, and a substitution at position 8 conferring DPP-4 resistance) extend its half-life to approximately 1 week, enabling once-weekly subcutaneous dosing
Deficiency causes multiple problems, but adequate or excess B12 provides nothing but benefits to your energy, strength, and mental sharpness
Patients with long-standing alcohol use, restrictive diets, malabsorption syndromes, or prolonged use of medications that deplete or interfere with B vitamins may particularly benefit when a deficiency is confirmed