Vitamin B12 benefits in CFS patientsOpen Trial of Vitamin B12 Nasal Drops in Adults With Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Comparison of Responders and Non-Responders.
Highly relevant for treatment options
We investigated the use of vitamin B12 nasal drops in adults with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) over three months. A total of 51 patients participated, and we measured their vitamin B12 levels alongside physical activity and fatigue scores.
Remarkably, two-thirds of the participants experienced positive results, including increased activity and better overall scores on fatigue measures. While responders showed significant improvements, the non-responders had only minor increases in vitamin B12 levels.
This indicates that vitamin B12 nasal drops could be a beneficial alternative to injections for many CFS patients.
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We evaluated the impact of B12 injections combined with folic acid on patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). In our survey of 38 patients, we identified two groups based on their response: Good and Mild responders. Good responders received more frequent and higher doses of B12, leading to significant improvements in their symptoms.
However, Mild responders, many of whom took pain medications, reported minimal progress. Overall, while some patients showed benefits, the effectiveness of B12 treatment varies widely, and further research is needed to understand optimal dosages and drug interactions.
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Vitamin B12 drops show promiseOpen Trial of Vitamin B12 Nasal Drops in Adults With Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Comparison of Responders and Non-Responders.
Direct investigation of B12 treatment
We examined the impact of vitamin B12 nasal drops on individuals suffering from myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Our study involved fifty-one patients, predominantly female, with an average age of 42 and an average illness duration of 16 years.
After three months of treatment, we measured their vitamin B12 serum levels, physical activity, and fatigue and concentration levels. Interestingly, we found that the participants who responded positively to the treatment experienced significant improvements in their vitamin B12 levels, daily step count, and overall physical activity. Moreover, those who reported a positive response noted a decrease in fatigue levels.
On the flip side, those categorized as non-responders had only a modest increase in vitamin B12 levels, with no notable improvement in other measures. Overall, our findings suggest that nasal drops could serve as a viable alternative to vitamin B12 injections, especially since around two-thirds of participants reported feeling better after treatment. This pilot study opens up new avenues for interventions in managing ME/CFS and highlights the importance of considering alternative treatment methods.
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We explored the effects of frequent vitamin B12 injections in patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The study included 38 patients who received B12 injections at least weekly for a period ranging from six months to several years.
Our findings revealed two groups of patients: those termed "Good responders" and "Mild responders." Good responders, who reported feeling significantly better, used higher doses and more frequent injections of B12, alongside daily oral folic acid tailored to their individual needs.
Interestingly, the results indicated that Mild responders often relied on pain medications like opioids, which might interfere with B12’s effects. We noted that co-existing thyroid issues were common among these patients, suggesting a complex interaction at play.
Overall, our study points to a real potential benefit from vitamin B12 and folic acid in managing chronic fatigue symptoms. However, individual responses can vary greatly, and it’s crucial to consider each patient's unique circumstances when designing future clinical studies.
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Potential effects on chronic fatigueTreatment of multiple sclerosis with lofepramine, L-phenylalanine and vitamin B(12): mechanism of action and clinical importance: roles of the locus coeruleus and central noradrenergic systems.
Combination therapy complicates evaluation
We recently came across an intriguing study that highlighted the potential benefits of a combination therapy involving lofepramine, L-phenylalanine, and vitamin B12 for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). Conducted as a randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind trial, the research aimed to evaluate how this combination could help alleviate various symptoms associated with MS and chronic pain.
While this study did address the role of vitamin B12, it was examined alongside lofepramine and phenylalanine. This makes it challenging for us to pinpoint the specific impact of vitamin B12 in the context of chronic fatigue syndrome on its own. The treatment showed effectiveness in improving symptoms within just two to four weeks, but due to the combination of treatments, we need more focused studies to assess vitamin B12's distinct role.
Overall, it's exciting to see a potential link between this therapy and symptom relief, yet we must remain cautious about attributing the benefits solely to vitamin B12, given the blended approach of the therapy used in the trial.
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