Treatment of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia Due to Insufficient Dietary Intake

Clinical Scenario

This protocol addresses Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia in patients where the deficiency is attributable to insufficient dietary intake of vitamin B12, or where the cause is uncertain and malabsorption has not been confirmed by investigations.

Treatment Approach

For patients with dietary B12 deficiency, the primary strategy involves over-the-counter oral vitamin B12 supplementation. For a defined subset of patients — those with specific coexisting neurological or haematological conditions, or where adherence to oral therapy cannot be assured — an injectable form of vitamin B12 may be indicated as an alternative approach.

The full structured regimen, including preparation selection, dosing schedule, and criteria for each pathway, is available via the link below.

Treatment Goals

B12 levels and symptoms are reviewed at 3 months. When levels rise and symptoms improve, replacement may be stopped, with guidance on ongoing diet and self-care.