Synopsis

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

Vitamin B12 (specifically in its active forms, such as adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin) is scientifically validated as an essential treatment for pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition in which the body cannot produce enough intrinsic factor, a protein needed for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. As a result, patients develop vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to impaired red blood cell production (megaloblastic anemia), neurological symptoms, and other systemic effects.

The link between vitamin B12 deficiency and pernicious anemia was established in the early 20th century. Before the discovery of B12, the disease was often fatal. Pioneering studies by Whipple, Minot, and Murphy in the 1920s and 1930s revealed that feeding patients large amounts of liver (a rich source of B12) led to recovery. The isolation of vitamin B12 in 1948 and subsequent development of injectable and oral forms revolutionized treatment. Today, vitamin B12 supplementation is the standard of care; the route (oral, intramuscular, or sublingual) is chosen based on the patient’s ability to absorb the vitamin.

Multiple clinical guidelines and evidence reviews confirm that vitamin B12 supplementation corrects the hematologic and neurological manifestations of pernicious anemia. Without treatment, the deficiency can lead to irreversible neurological damage and even death. Therefore, the use of vitamin B12 in pernicious anemia is strongly supported by high-quality scientific evidence.

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