Methylcobalamin (B12)

Methylcobalamin is the active and bioavailable form of Vitamin B12. Unlike the synthetic form cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin is immediately usable by the body and plays a crucial role in supporting healthy brain function, nerve regeneration, red blood cell production, and overall energy levels. For individuals with genetic mutations like MTHFR, impaired methylation, and other medical conditions, injectable methylcobalamin is an essential treatment that cannot be substituted.

Pernicious Anemia: A life-threatening disorder where the body cannot absorb B12 orally
Developmental Disorders: Methylcobalamin is widely used in therapeutic settings to support neurological development in children with ASD
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Other Neurological Disorders: It aids in nerve regeneration, helping those with degenerative nerve conditions.
Chronic Illnesses and MTHFR Mutation: Patients with impaired methylation depend on injectable methylcobalamin to maintain essential bodily functions.
Malabsorption: Patients with IBD or other absorption issues cannot replenish B12 or other nutrients through food and supplements.

Methylcobalamin (MeCbl) is widely used in the treatment of various conditions, including nutritional deficiencies, Alzheimer’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. It supports nerve health by aiding in the repair of damaged nerves and protecting against nerve cell damage caused by glutamate toxicity. Studies have also suggested that MeCbl may help relieve pain, particularly in conditions like diabetic neuropathy, lower back pain, and neuralgia. It has been shown to improve nerve conduction, support nerve regeneration, and suppress abnormal discharges from damaged sensory neurons. According to the Merck Manual, B12 deficiency is linked to many illnesses including depression, paranoia, and nervous system disorders.

Intramuscular B12 shots: These are typically given to patients who need a quick and effective way to increase B12 levels. Shots are often administered intramuscularly to treat conditions like pernicious anemia, chronic fatigue, and neurological disorders. They are commonly used when oral absorption is impaired.
Intravenous (IV) B12 infusions: Infusions are used when larger doses of B12 are required or when ongoing, continuous treatment is necessary for severe deficiencies. Patients with more complex health issues, like those undergoing detoxification treatments or dealing with advanced neurological disorders, may benefit from infusions.

Despite methylcobalamin being a well-established, safe, and life-saving treatment, the California Board of Pharmacy (BOP) is threatening to severely restrict its availability through their proposed regulations. While the Board claims they are not banning methylcobalamin, their actions say otherwise. For four years the BOP has engaged in underground regulations, forcing compounding pharmacies to stop providing sterile forms of methylcobalamin without any scientific or safety-based justification, and without following the proper regulatory process. They have sued compounding pharmacies over legal methylcobalamin production, and despite losing these suits, they took disciplinary action anyway.

At the recent Board of Pharmacy meeting on September 12, dozens of individuals, including doctors and patients, voiced their unanimous opposition to the proposed regulations. This public outcry highlights the critical need to preserve access to these essential treatments for those suffering from chronic illness who are fighting for their lives.

Ensuring the health and safety of our chronic illness communities should be a top priority. Maintaining patient access to ALL treatment options available should not be up for debate. Category 1 compounds are essential for the well-being and longevity of many. The proposed bans disguised as regulations disregard the health needs of the most vulnerable populations in California.

Please visit the Pernicious Anemia Society or CluB-12 to learn more about the importance of B12.