If you've had weight reduction (bariatric) surgery, are living with Crohn's disease or suffer from other serious stomach or intestinal disorders, you may be at risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Named the "red vitamin," vitamin B-12 is unique for two reasons: it is the only vitamin that contains the essential mineral cobalt and it cannot be manufactured by the body, but rather must be obtained via food sources. A healthy body obtains B-12 from eggs, meat, poultry, shellfish and dairy products. In people who have had their small intestine bypassed or surgically removed altogether, absorption of B-12 from these food sources becomes virtually impossible.
One of the challenges in detecting B-12 deficiency is that there are no initial symptoms. Yet, the ramifications of a deficiency are serious. Vitamin B-12's basic functions include both the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of a balanced nervous system. A deficiency left untreated may affect the nervous system leading to memory loss and overall lethargy.
Historically, patients have been treated with monthly injections, directly into the bloodstream-bypassing the malfunctioning digestive tract. Obviously, many find this inconvenient and painful.
Today, a new alternative for treating B-12 deficiency is a prescription medication named Nascobal, by Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Nascobal, a nasal gel formulation dosage of cyanocobalamin USP (vitamin B-12) is taken once a week. The gel enters the bloodstream via blood vessels in the nose. Nascobal's intranasal delivery form allows users to increase their vitamin B-12 levels effectively and is easy to use.
If you think your energy may be waning due to a vitamin B-12 deficiency, see your doctor. To learn more about Nascobal as a treatment option, visit the Web site at www.nascobal.com.
Posted by Constance Wherrity on February 11, 2006 5:51 PM
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