Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin)
For the health condition: Neuralgia and Neuritis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) is scientifically used to support and sometimes treat certain types of neuralgia and neuritis, especially those associated with B12 deficiency. Methylcobalamin is one of the active forms of vitamin B12 involved in the maintenance of nerve health. There is moderate evidence supporting its use in neuropathies, particularly in peripheral neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy. Several clinical trials have shown that methylcobalamin supplementation can improve symptoms such as numbness, pain, and sensory disturbances in patients with neuropathy, presumably by enhancing myelin sheath regeneration and promoting nerve repair.

The scientific rationale is strongest in individuals with documented B12 deficiency, where supplementation can prevent further nerve damage and sometimes reverse symptoms. For idiopathic or non-deficiency-related neuralgias and neuritis, the evidence is mixed: some studies suggest benefit, while others find little effect compared to placebo. Nevertheless, methylcobalamin is widely used in neurology, especially in East Asian countries, as an adjunct treatment for neuralgic conditions, with some randomized controlled trials indicating improvements in nerve conduction velocity and symptom relief.

In summary, while there is scientific evidence supporting the use of methylcobalamin in neuralgia and neuritis—especially when associated with B12 deficiency—the strength of evidence varies depending on the underlying cause. The overall evidence rating is moderate: it is validated for deficiency states and has some support as an adjunct for neuropathic pain, but is not a primary treatment for all forms of neuralgia or neuritis.

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