Synopsis

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

Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) is scientifically used to support or treat wasting syndromes primarily in the context of B12 deficiency. Wasting, characterized by unintended weight loss and muscle atrophy, is often multifactorial—prevalent in chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or malnutrition. In these contexts, B12 deficiency may contribute to anemia, neuropathy, and general debility, exacerbating wasting symptoms. Several studies and clinical guidelines suggest that B12 supplementation can improve hematological parameters and neurological symptoms in deficient individuals, which may indirectly support recovery from wasting due to improved energy, appetite, and muscle function. However, there is little evidence that B12 supplementation benefits patients who are not deficient, or that it directly reverses wasting independent of correcting deficiency.

The evidence level is moderate (3/5) because the benefit is well-established in deficiency states, but there is insufficient data to support B12 as a primary anti-wasting agent in the absence of deficiency. Most guidelines recommend B12 supplementation only for individuals with confirmed or suspected deficiency, as determined by low serum B12 or elevated methylmalonic acid/homocysteine levels. In summary, B12 (methylcobalamin) is a scientifically validated treatment for wasting only when deficiency is present, but is not a general anti-wasting therapy for all patients.

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