Can low vit B12 levels impact the recovery from depression?

Question

Hello Doctor,

My brother is 32 years old and has been taking Escitalopram 10 milligrams daily for depression for the past four months. He says he feels a little better but still finds it hard to get out of bed and does not enjoy things like he used to. He has also gained 6 kilograms since starting the medicine. His recent test showed his vitamin B12 level was 196 picograms per millilitre and his thyroid-stimulating hormone level was 5.9. Could these levels be affecting his recovery from depression? How do doctors usually decide when to change the dose or add another medicine if there is only partial improvement?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

A vitamin B12 level of 196 picograms per millilitre is considered low, as normal levels are typically above 200 to 300 picograms per millilitre. When the level drops below 200, it is considered a deficiency and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, nerve-related problems, and anemia. Additionally, a thyroid-stimulating hormone level (TSH) of 5.9 milli-international units per litre is above the normal range, which may indicate an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid can significantly affect mood and may lead to symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and mood swings. This is because thyroid hormones play an important role in brain function and help regulate neurotransmitters involved in mood control.

When someone with depression shows only partial improvement after starting treatment, deciding whether to adjust or add medication should be done carefully with the guidance of a healthcare professional. This decision usually depends on the severity and duration of symptoms, how much they interfere with daily life, and how well the current treatment is working. Any medication changes should be made gradually and monitored closely for both benefits and side effects. Probable causes depression and anxiety

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Thank you.