Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin)
For the health condition: Pernicious Anemia

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) is scientifically validated as a treatment for pernicious anemia, a condition caused by vitamin B12 deficiency due to impaired absorption. Pernicious anemia results from the lack of intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for B12 absorption in the gut, leading to megaloblastic anemia and neurological symptoms. The administration of vitamin B12, either via intramuscular injection or high-dose oral supplementation, effectively bypasses the need for intrinsic factor, replenishing B12 stores and restoring normal red blood cell production.

The standard of care for pernicious anemia has long been parenteral (injection) B12, but studies have shown that oral forms, including methylcobalamin, can also be effective if given at high doses, as passive diffusion allows for a small percentage of B12 to be absorbed even without intrinsic factor. Multiple clinical trials and consensus guidelines, including those from the American Society of Hematology and the British Society for Haematology, confirm the efficacy of B12 therapy in reversing anemia, correcting laboratory abnormalities, and improving neurological symptoms.

Methylcobalamin is one of the bioactive forms of B12, and while cyanocobalamin is more commonly used in clinical practice, methylcobalamin is also effective. The scientific evidence supporting B12 supplementation for pernicious anemia is robust, with decades of clinical use and research validating its necessity and effectiveness.

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