HomeAnswersHematologyhigh vitamin b12My vitamin B12 level is elevated. Is it dangerous as I have been taking vitamin B12 supplements for many years?

Is it dangerous for vitamin B12 levels to be elevated?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 15, 2022
Reviewed AtNovember 15, 2022

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I got my complete blood count done, and there is an elevated level of vitamin B12. I have taken vitamin B12 supplements on and off for many years. Is it dangerous?

Answered by Dr. Sugreev Singh

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

From the reports attached (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), it is not dangerous, so do not worry at all. However, you should stop taking vitamin B12 supplements because you already have a good amount of vitamin B12 in your body. You should take the test after three months and see the levels.

Also, answer the following:

Do you have any symptoms like itching and irritation?

Do you consume red meat frequently?

Please let me know so I can help accordingly.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I am experiencing symptoms like anxiety, stomach upset, and loose stools. I do not eat any meat at all. Kindly let me know.

Answered by Dr. Sugreev Singh

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Anxiety and stomach upset are due to stress. Do not overthink about your health, and everything is fine in your case. I suggest you take Pantoprazole 40 mg once before breakfast for five days. Also, eat more fruits and drink plenty of fluids. Do meditation every day for at least 30 minutes.

Please let me know if there are any specific reasons behind your anxiety.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for your reply.

I have read an article that says persistent elevated B12 is strongly associated with cancer. This has scared me and increased my anxiety. I do not eat meat, dairy, or eggs. So I am concerned about my elevated B12 levels.

Answered by Dr. Sugreev Singh

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your quick response, and I understand your concern. Yes, there are many such articles, but this does not apply to the whole population. In your case, the levels are high because you were taking supplements. So we cannot consider it as high. If you stop taking supplements, your vitamin B12 levels will fall. This article may relate to those whose vitamin B12 has been high since birth and genetically. You are a patient of vitamin B12 deficiency, not a patient of elevated B12. That is why you do not have to worry at all. Your levels are high due to supplements only, and it does not cause cancer or associated diseases. If any further questions, please let me know. I hope it will be of help.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sugreev Singh
Dr. Sugreev Singh

Internal Medicine

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