We conducted a review of randomized controlled trials to determine the effectiveness of vitamin B12 in treating postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful condition following shingles. Our analysis included data from databases such as PubMed and Cochrane Library, focusing specifically on trials that measured pain relief outcomes.
Our findings indicate that vitamin B12 supplementation has a significant positive effect on reducing pain levels in PHN patients. In fact, those who received vitamin B12 experienced a notable decrease in pain compared to those on placebo, with a reduction in the pain score of about four points. This result suggests that vitamin B12 not only helps with pain relief but also enhances overall quality of life for individuals suffering from this distressing condition.
Additionally, we observed a drop in the number of patients relying on analgesics, pointing to a potential alternative treatment avenue with vitamin B12. Although the evidence is moderate in quality, it presents a compelling case for the use of vitamin B12 as a complementary therapy for managing pain associated with shingles.
Read More
9
Local B12 injections reduce shingles pain
Local Administration of Methylcobalamin for Subacute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Randomized, Phase III Clinical Trial.
We conducted a clinical trial to determine how effective local injections of vitamin B12, specifically methylcobalamin, combined with lidocaine, are in treating pain caused by shingles, known as subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia (SOHN). One hundred and five patients participated, each experiencing moderate to severe pain. They were divided into three groups to receive different treatments: a local injection of methylcobalamin and lidocaine, an intramuscular injection of methylcobalamin with local lidocaine, or oral methylcobalamin alongside local lidocaine.
Throughout the four-week trial, we observed significant pain relief among all groups, but the local injection group reported the most substantial reduction in pain. For example, their pain scores dropped from an average of 6.7 to 2.8, while the other groups showed less improvement. Additionally, most people receiving local injections experienced a clinically meaningful reduction in pain, which wasn't as pronounced in the other treatment groups.
Those in the local injection group also reported significantly less need for pain relief medication by the end of the study, signaling a potential improvement in their overall quality of life while undergoing treatment. Overall, our findings suggest that local methylcobalamin injections, when used with lidocaine, might provide superior pain relief compared to systemic or oral options in patients suffering from shingles-related pain.
Read More
9
Methylcobalamin injections relieve shingles pain
A single-center randomized controlled trial of local methylcobalamin injection for subacute herpetic neuralgia.
We conducted a study to see how effective local injections of methylcobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, could be in easing pain and enhancing quality of life for people suffering from subacute herpetic neuralgia, a painful condition related to shingles.
Ninety-eight participants over the age of 50, all experiencing significant pain after a shingles rash, were involved in this randomized controlled trial. They received either local methylcobalamin injections, oral methylcobalamin, or lidocaine injections over a four-week period, and we measured various pain levels and quality of life indicators pre- and post-treatment.
The results showed that local methylcobalamin injections significantly reduced overall pain and other pain-related symptoms compared to the other groups. Notably, many participants reported a marked improvement in their daily living activities and overall quality of life. However, it is important to note that oral methylcobalamin did not lead to significant pain relief, which highlights the advantage of local injections over oral treatments in this case.
Overall, we observed that local methylcobalamin injections appear to be an effective and well-tolerated option for treating pain associated with shingles.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Pain relief
1 people found this helpful
I have been using this product for years, learning that cobalamin is vital for recovery from illness. When I developed shingles, I increased my intake and saw the growth of new shingles stop, with healing occurring without blistering. The pain subsided after taking one tablet daily, so I didn't need to go to the hospital; this product is fantastic!
Read More
7.5
Nerve repair
8 people found this helpful
Methyl cobalamin is essential to take for at least a week when shingles occur. It's the only substance that repairs nerve coverings, and I keep some on hand. It works as effectively as a B12 injection, at a mere ten pence per dose.
Read More
7.5
Stiffness reduction
I typically use 500mcg of cherry flavour, which is easier to take. I discovered mecobalamin during my shingles experience, and I've used it for years. Thanks to this product, I've alleviated my stiff neck and shoulders.
We conducted a clinical trial to determine how effective local injections of vitamin B12, specifically methylcobalamin, combined with lidocaine, are in treating pain caused by shingles, known as subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia (SOHN). One hundred and five patients participated, each experiencing moderate to severe pain. They were divided into three groups to receive different treatments: a local injection of methylcobalamin and lidocaine, an intramuscular injection of methylcobalamin with local lidocaine, or oral methylcobalamin alongside local lidocaine.
Throughout the four-week trial, we observed significant pain relief among all groups, but the local injection group reported the most substantial reduction in pain. For example, their pain scores dropped from an average of 6.7 to 2.8, while the other groups showed less improvement. Additionally, most people receiving local injections experienced a clinically meaningful reduction in pain, which wasn't as pronounced in the other treatment groups.
Those in the local injection group also reported significantly less need for pain relief medication by the end of the study, signaling a potential improvement in their overall quality of life while undergoing treatment. Overall, our findings suggest that local methylcobalamin injections, when used with lidocaine, might provide superior pain relief compared to systemic or oral options in patients suffering from shingles-related pain.
Read More
9
Vitamin B12 reduces shingles pain
Local Administration of Methylcobalamin and Lidocaine for Acute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial.
We investigated the effects of a combination of vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) and lidocaine on acute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia, commonly known as shingles. The study involved 98 patients who were divided into two groups based on when their shingles symptoms began—those with symptoms for three days or less and those between four to seven days. Each group was further split into a control group receiving standard treatments and a treatment group receiving the combination therapy locally for a duration of 14 days.
Our findings revealed that the combination treatment significantly reduced pain and improved healing compared to the control group. Specifically, patients who received the methylcobalamin and lidocaine mixture experienced faster healing of skin rashes and marked reductions in pain levels. Notably, the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a common complication after shingles, was also much lower in those receiving the combination treatment, reaching just 2.04% at three months.
This suggests that using vitamin B12 along with lidocaine could be a promising therapeutic option for people suffering from shingles, particularly if applied within the first week of symptom onset. The results highlight not just the treatment’s efficacy in relieving pain but also its potential to enhance overall recovery from this challenging condition.
Read More
9
Methylcobalamin injections relieve shingles pain
A single-center randomized controlled trial of local methylcobalamin injection for subacute herpetic neuralgia.
We conducted a study to see how effective local injections of methylcobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, could be in easing pain and enhancing quality of life for people suffering from subacute herpetic neuralgia, a painful condition related to shingles.
Ninety-eight participants over the age of 50, all experiencing significant pain after a shingles rash, were involved in this randomized controlled trial. They received either local methylcobalamin injections, oral methylcobalamin, or lidocaine injections over a four-week period, and we measured various pain levels and quality of life indicators pre- and post-treatment.
The results showed that local methylcobalamin injections significantly reduced overall pain and other pain-related symptoms compared to the other groups. Notably, many participants reported a marked improvement in their daily living activities and overall quality of life. However, it is important to note that oral methylcobalamin did not lead to significant pain relief, which highlights the advantage of local injections over oral treatments in this case.
Overall, we observed that local methylcobalamin injections appear to be an effective and well-tolerated option for treating pain associated with shingles.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 aids shingles pain relief
Vitamin B12 for herpetic neuralgia: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
We conducted a review of randomized controlled trials to determine the effectiveness of vitamin B12 in treating postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful condition following shingles. Our analysis included data from databases such as PubMed and Cochrane Library, focusing specifically on trials that measured pain relief outcomes.
Our findings indicate that vitamin B12 supplementation has a significant positive effect on reducing pain levels in PHN patients. In fact, those who received vitamin B12 experienced a notable decrease in pain compared to those on placebo, with a reduction in the pain score of about four points. This result suggests that vitamin B12 not only helps with pain relief but also enhances overall quality of life for individuals suffering from this distressing condition.
Additionally, we observed a drop in the number of patients relying on analgesics, pointing to a potential alternative treatment avenue with vitamin B12. Although the evidence is moderate in quality, it presents a compelling case for the use of vitamin B12 as a complementary therapy for managing pain associated with shingles.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 shows limited effectiveness
Local Injection of Methylcobalamin Combined with Lidocaine for Acute Herpetic Neuralgia.
We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of combining methylcobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, with lidocaine in treating acute herpetic neuralgia, commonly linked to shingles. Our study involved 204 participants over 50 years old, who were divided into groups based on the timing of their symptoms.
The treatment groups received local injections of both methylcobalamin and lidocaine for 14 days, while the control groups received intramuscular methylcobalamin plus local lidocaine. We evaluated treatment outcomes by measuring rash healing time, pain intensity, and overall quality of life. Interestingly, while pain reduction was significant in the treatment groups, rash healing time did not differ much between them.
The findings revealed that although the combination treatment led to improvements in pain and quality of life, the effects of vitamin B12 alone on shingles were not fully separable from those of lidocaine. Therefore, while we observed benefits associated with the combination therapy, we cannot definitively claim that vitamin B12 alone significantly aids in shingles recovery.
I have been using this product for years, learning that cobalamin is vital for recovery from illness. When I developed shingles, I increased my intake and saw the growth of new shingles stop, with healing occurring without blistering. The pain subsided after taking one tablet daily, so I didn't need to go to the hospital; this product is fantastic!
Read More
7.5
Nerve repair
8 people found this helpful
Methyl cobalamin is essential to take for at least a week when shingles occur. It's the only substance that repairs nerve coverings, and I keep some on hand. It works as effectively as a B12 injection, at a mere ten pence per dose.
Read More
7.5
Stiffness reduction
I typically use 500mcg of cherry flavour, which is easier to take. I discovered mecobalamin during my shingles experience, and I've used it for years. Thanks to this product, I've alleviated my stiff neck and shoulders.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection characterized by a painful rash that typically appears on one side of the body, often in a stripe or patch-like formation. The virus responsible for shingles is the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After an individual recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, especially when the immune system is weakened due to stress, aging, or other health issues. Symptoms usually start with localized pain, itching, or a burning sensation, followed by the development of red blisters that eventually crust over.
Vaccination may help reduce the risk of developing shingles, particularly for older adults and those with compromised immune systems. The shingles vaccine can also lessen the severity and duration of the illness if contracted. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially since shingles can lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, which results in lingering pain even after the rash has healed. Additionally, maintaining a healthy immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest can play a significant role in minimizing the risk of shingles.
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several vital functions in the human body. It is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Naturally occurring in animal products, the vitamin can be found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making it particularly important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as plant-based sources of B12 are limited and often require supplementation.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues, including anemia, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage. Due to its significance, it's crucial for individuals, particularly those at risk of deficiency, to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplementation. For most adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 2.4 micrograms, though pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. If you're considering B12 supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs and health status.
Based on user reviews, the timeframe for seeing results from taking this supplement for shingles can vary. Some users report experiencing a noticeable reduction in pain and symptoms relatively quickly, often within a few days of starting the regimen. For instance, one user indicated that after taking one tablet daily, the pain subsided, and the growth of new shingles stopped, leading to healing without blistering Read Review. Another user emphasized the importance of taking methyl cobalamin for at least a week to see effective results, noting its role in repairing nerve coverings Read Review.
Overall, while some users may begin to feel relief within a few days, a minimum duration of about a week is often suggested for optimal effects. It’s important to remember that individual responses may vary, and factors such as dosage and overall health can influence how quickly one might see results.
The research surrounding the use of Vitamin B12, specifically in the form of methylcobalamin, for managing shingles-related pain is increasingly supportive. A clinical trial demonstrated that local injections of methylcobalamin combined with lidocaine led to significant pain relief, particularly amongst patients suffering from subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia (SOHN), with pain scores dropping from 6.7 to 2.8 over four weeks for the injection group [1]. Moreover, a review of randomized controlled trials concluded that Vitamin B12 supplementation had a notable impact on pain relief in postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), indicating its potential as an effective complementary treatment [2].
The combination of methylcobalamin and lidocaine has also shown promising results in enhancing overall recovery among shingles patients. Studies indicated that this combination not only significantly reduced pain but also expedited healing rates, with lower instances of postherpetic neuralgia in patients receiving the treatment [4]. However, it is important to note that while there are encouraging findings about the effectiveness of Vitamin B12, particularly combined with lidocaine, the isolated impact of Vitamin B12 alone remains less clear [3]. Overall, current evidence suggests that local Vitamin B12 injections may be a valuable addition to the management strategies for shingles pain.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their symptoms when using methyl cobalamin for shingles-related issues. One user shared that after increasing their intake during a shingles outbreak, they experienced a cessation in the growth of new shingles and healing occurred without any blistering. Additionally, the pain subsided after just a few days of taking one tablet daily, allowing them to avoid a hospital visit altogether Read Review.
Other users have echoed these sentiments, noting that a consistent dosage for at least a week is often recommended for maximum benefit. For example, another reviewer emphasized the necessity of daily intake, stating it's as effective as a B12 injection but at a fraction of the cost Read Review. Furthermore, one user reported alleviating tension in their neck and shoulders during their shingles experience, highlighting the broader potential benefits of this supplement Read Review. While many have found relief with methyl cobalamin, it's important to remember that individual results can vary greatly depending on personal health circumstances and adherence to recommended dosages.
The optimal dose of Vitamin B12 for treating shingles primarily hinges on the method of administration. Research highlights the effectiveness of local injections of methylcobalamin, a specific form of Vitamin B12, combined with lidocaine. In various clinical trials, patients receiving local injections reported significant pain relief compared to those on oral supplements or intramuscular injections. For instance, participants in one study saw their pain scores drop from an average of 6.7 to 2.8 over four weeks when treated with local injections of methylcobalamin and lidocaine, underscoring the superior effectiveness of this method [1].
While the precise dosage for local injections wasn’t explicitly stated, the significant results suggest that using methylcobalamin in this manner can substantially improve pain related to shingles. Additionally, supplementary research indicates that Vitamin B12 can aid in managing postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), though the evidence remains moderate in quality [2]. If you're considering this treatment, local injections would likely yield the best outcomes for alleviating shingles-related pain, primarily when performed early in the symptom onset [4]. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on treatment dosages and methods.
9
Pain relief
1 people found this helpful
I have been using this product for years, learning that cobalamin is vital for recovery from illness. When I developed shingles, I increased my intake and saw the growth of new shingles stop, with healing occurring without blistering. The pain subsided after taking one tablet daily, so I didn't need to go to the hospital; this product is fantastic!
7.5
Nerve repair
8 people found this helpful
Methyl cobalamin is essential to take for at least a week when shingles occur. It's the only substance that repairs nerve coverings, and I keep some on hand. It works as effectively as a B12 injection, at a mere ten pence per dose.
7.5
Stiffness reduction
I typically use 500mcg of cherry flavour, which is easier to take. I discovered mecobalamin during my shingles experience, and I've used it for years. Thanks to this product, I've alleviated my stiff neck and shoulders.
9
Local B12 injections reduce shingles pain
Local Administration of Methylcobalamin for Subacute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Randomized, Phase III Clinical Trial.
We conducted a clinical trial to determine how effective local injections of vitamin B12, specifically methylcobalamin, combined with lidocaine, are in treating pain caused by shingles, known as subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia (SOHN). One hundred and five patients participated, each experiencing moderate to severe pain. They were divided into three groups to receive different treatments: a local injection of methylcobalamin and lidocaine, an intramuscular injection of methylcobalamin with local lidocaine, or oral methylcobalamin alongside local lidocaine.
Throughout the four-week trial, we observed significant pain relief among all groups, but the local injection group reported the most substantial reduction in pain. For example, their pain scores dropped from an average of 6.7 to 2.8, while the other groups showed less improvement. Additionally, most people receiving local injections experienced a clinically meaningful reduction in pain, which wasn't as pronounced in the other treatment groups.
Those in the local injection group also reported significantly less need for pain relief medication by the end of the study, signaling a potential improvement in their overall quality of life while undergoing treatment. Overall, our findings suggest that local methylcobalamin injections, when used with lidocaine, might provide superior pain relief compared to systemic or oral options in patients suffering from shingles-related pain.
8
Vitamin B12 aids shingles pain relief
Vitamin B12 for herpetic neuralgia: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
We conducted a review of randomized controlled trials to determine the effectiveness of vitamin B12 in treating postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful condition following shingles. Our analysis included data from databases such as PubMed and Cochrane Library, focusing specifically on trials that measured pain relief outcomes.
Our findings indicate that vitamin B12 supplementation has a significant positive effect on reducing pain levels in PHN patients. In fact, those who received vitamin B12 experienced a notable decrease in pain compared to those on placebo, with a reduction in the pain score of about four points. This result suggests that vitamin B12 not only helps with pain relief but also enhances overall quality of life for individuals suffering from this distressing condition.
Additionally, we observed a drop in the number of patients relying on analgesics, pointing to a potential alternative treatment avenue with vitamin B12. Although the evidence is moderate in quality, it presents a compelling case for the use of vitamin B12 as a complementary therapy for managing pain associated with shingles.
9
Vitamin B12 reduces shingles pain
Local Administration of Methylcobalamin and Lidocaine for Acute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial.
We investigated the effects of a combination of vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) and lidocaine on acute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia, commonly known as shingles. The study involved 98 patients who were divided into two groups based on when their shingles symptoms began—those with symptoms for three days or less and those between four to seven days. Each group was further split into a control group receiving standard treatments and a treatment group receiving the combination therapy locally for a duration of 14 days.
Our findings revealed that the combination treatment significantly reduced pain and improved healing compared to the control group. Specifically, patients who received the methylcobalamin and lidocaine mixture experienced faster healing of skin rashes and marked reductions in pain levels. Notably, the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a common complication after shingles, was also much lower in those receiving the combination treatment, reaching just 2.04% at three months.
This suggests that using vitamin B12 along with lidocaine could be a promising therapeutic option for people suffering from shingles, particularly if applied within the first week of symptom onset. The results highlight not just the treatment’s efficacy in relieving pain but also its potential to enhance overall recovery from this challenging condition.
8
Vitamin B12 shows limited effectiveness
Local Injection of Methylcobalamin Combined with Lidocaine for Acute Herpetic Neuralgia.
We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of combining methylcobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, with lidocaine in treating acute herpetic neuralgia, commonly linked to shingles. Our study involved 204 participants over 50 years old, who were divided into groups based on the timing of their symptoms.
The treatment groups received local injections of both methylcobalamin and lidocaine for 14 days, while the control groups received intramuscular methylcobalamin plus local lidocaine. We evaluated treatment outcomes by measuring rash healing time, pain intensity, and overall quality of life. Interestingly, while pain reduction was significant in the treatment groups, rash healing time did not differ much between them.
The findings revealed that although the combination treatment led to improvements in pain and quality of life, the effects of vitamin B12 alone on shingles were not fully separable from those of lidocaine. Therefore, while we observed benefits associated with the combination therapy, we cannot definitively claim that vitamin B12 alone significantly aids in shingles recovery.
References
Xu G, Zhou CS, Tang WZ, Xu J, Xu G, et al. Local Administration of Methylcobalamin for Subacute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Randomized, Phase III Clinical Trial. Pain Pract. 2020;20:838. doi:10.1111/papr.12909
Wang JY, Wu YH, Liu SJ, Lin YS, Lu PH. Vitamin B12 for herpetic neuralgia: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Complement Ther Med. 2018;41:277. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.10.014
Xǔ G, Xu S, Tang WZ, Xú G, Cheng C, et al. Local Injection of Methylcobalamin Combined with Lidocaine for Acute Herpetic Neuralgia. Pain Med. 2016;17:572.
X G, Xu S, Cheng C, Xú G, Tang WZ, et al. Local Administration of Methylcobalamin and Lidocaine for Acute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial. Pain Pract. 2016;16:869. doi:10.1111/papr.12328
Xu G, Lv ZW, Xu GX, Tang WZ. Thiamine, cobalamin, locally injected alone or combination for herpetic itching: a single-center randomized controlled trial. Clin J Pain. 2014;30:269. doi:10.1097/AJP.0b013e3182a0e085
Xu G, Lv ZW, Feng Y, Tang WZ, Xu GX. A single-center randomized controlled trial of local methylcobalamin injection for subacute herpetic neuralgia. Pain Med. 2013;14:884. doi:10.1111/pme.12081
Dehara K, Takeda S, Nakamizo N, Morimoto F, Ikeda T, et al. [Herpes zoster of the right cervical region associated with right facial nerve palsy and hoarseness]. Masui. 1992;41:1322.