Q. Does taking high doses of vitamin B12 during pregnancy cause autism?
Hi doctor,
I am a 34 years old female, and I am ten weeks, four days pregnant. I am a vegetarian, and before I was pregnant, I would intermittently take a vitamin B12 supplement. I found the bottle two weeks ago, and without thinking about it, I started taking it daily in addition to my prenatal vitamin (which contains 4.2 mcg). Well, I finally looked at the bottle today and realized that the concentration is 1200 mcg per tablet. I read this study correlating increased risk of autism with excessive B12 blood levels, and I am very worried. I know that officially there is no upper limit and that it is water-soluble, but I do not know if there is any new information or data or clinical experience. Do pregnant women commonly take high doses for certain conditions? I was getting so worried that I was thinking about abortion. I would appreciate your honest opinion and not just reassurance.
Thanks so much for your time.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Oral absorption of vitamin B12 is a complex process and all the vitamins taken orally are not completely absorbed. You mentioned that you took the tablet intermittently and did not mention the exact frequency. Most studies are on patients taking high doses of vitamin B12 by injection. And still, if you are anxious, you can get your serum B12 estimated. It which will clear your anxiety.
Hi doctor,
I took 1200 mcg once daily for two weeks, and then I stopped after realizing that it was a high dose. This was during eight to ten weeks of pregnancy. I am wondering if this could have affected brain development. I am not sure if I can get my B12 level tested in my country, but I will try if you think it would be worthwhile. I would appreciate your honest opinion, but I guess there is not much I can do about it now.
Thanks again for your time.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
My honest opinion is that your fears are unfounded as you took B12 orally, that too for a concise duration. As I explained earlier, only a part of the orally administered vitamin B12 is absorbed into the circulation. I suggested serum B12 estimation just to reassure you scientifically. After knowing that you took the oral B12 tablets for two weeks, there is no need for serum B12 estimation. I think folic acid and vitamin B12 supplements are essential during pregnancy, especially for pure vegetarians. You did the right thing. You should be happy about it.
Was this answer helpful?
|Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions:
Why is vitamin B12 level high in a diabetic patient?
Along with the above, taking Thyronorm 25 mcg, Vitamin C, multivitamin tablet, Omega 3 fish oil, Ecosprin 75 ... Vitamin B12 was 1271 ... Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth results in Read full
How is autism in adults diagnosed?It causes problems in social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communications, and changes in repetitive or ritualistic behaviors ... The common symptoms of autism in adults are difficulty in interpreting other's thinking or feelings, problems in interpr Read full
Is autism the cause of my 5-year-old son's behavior change?For diagnosing a child with autism spectrum disorder, a detailed history is required and he needs observation under a doctor ... Read full
Also Read Answers From:
Comprehensive Medical Second Opinion.Submit your Case
iCliniq's FREE Newsletters
Expert-backed health and wellness information, delivered to your email.
Thank you for subscribing to our Newsletters!
Also Read
PCOS and Liver Problems
The hormonal imbalances in polycystic ovary syndrome could cause liver diseases. Read the article to know the relationship between these medical conditions. Read more»
Inferior Alveolar Nerve Lateralization Technique
The inferior alveolar nerve lateralization technique is a surgical lateralization technique to reposition the nerve. Read the article to know more about this. Read more»
COVID-19 and Ebola: Similarities and Differences
This article gives a comparison and broader overview of the outbreak of the two deadliest diseases that showed a greater incidence over the last two decades. Read more»
Ask your health query to a doctor online?
Ask an Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Now* guaranteed answer within 4 hours.