How Can Chronic Anemia Symptoms Be Managed And Would B12 Injections Help Like It Did Previously?

Posted on Sat, 14 Apr 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 14 Apr 2018 Answered on

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : I have used B12 injections in the past to combat chronic amemia in the middle east how do I get back on as the symptoms have returned

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
YOu are correct!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

With gastric bypass, your gut can no longer absorb vitamin B12 because the intrinsic factor produced from the stomach which is very important in its absorption is greatly affected.

Please talk to your doctor. It is your right and it is to begin with very much justified in your case to receive the VitB12 shots, All you need is to bring this up. Any doctor would do this without hesitating. B12 is no controlled substance. Should your doctor refuse, inform me and also spell out the reasons for review.

I hope this helps and guides. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (25 minutes later)

Thank you for your support Should I go to a doctor with internal medicine specialty or GP ?

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Internal medicine!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

internal medicine is your preferred choice. However, most primary care doctors in the USA are internists.

I wish you well and keep me updated.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (40 hours later)

Am I able to get an online prescription for B12 injection with this consultation ?

Most of the doctors contacted in our medical plans have extremely long wait list for appointments and will cost me money outside of covered by insurance plans. If B12 is not a controlled substance why us it so difficult with my history and my gastric bypass history for me to get support for a continual Rx?

Any help finding a more practical support ?

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (32 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Unfortunately, I can't prescribe online!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

It is rather unfortunate I cannot prescribe online. I am so sorry about this. Try shopping around more, that's all I can propose. I wish you were in my area and we would have received you anytime.

Keep me updated

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar