B12 Nasal Spray or Injection

[GStew74]

I was diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia Aug. 2020. I have been receiving B12 injections every 10 day since diagnosed. I am feeling better, seeing improvements. After months of Rx B12 nasal spray being denied and phone calls with insurance, it has “finally” been approved. My question, should I switch to the Nasal Spray from injections? Does anyone know if the Nascobal nasal spray is as effective as the actual B12 injection?

I had previously pushed for the spray because I have a phobia of needles. But my health and survival are far more important than a phobia, to which I am seeking therapy to help me w/ that.

Any advice, tips is appreciated.

[wedgewood]

As a diagnosed Pernicious Anaemia patient of 6 years , I do not advise you to use nasal spray instead of B12 injections . Injections are the most efficacious method of getting vitamin B12 into your cells . Some P.A. patients say that they use the spray as a “boost “ between injections . I have tried nasal and sublingual sprays, sublingual lozenges and patches . To no avail whatsoever. A scientist on the forum tells us that the B12 molecule is too large to enter through any skin . There is no harm in you trying the spray , but never never substitute it for injections . I hope that you can overcome your aversion to injections in time . You must know that you will need them for life . Injections are your best friend ! .Best wishes .

[GStew74 in reply to wedgewood]

Thank you for the advice. I am seeking therapy for that. I tried once to give myself an injection and just could get any further than the actual injection, went into a full blown panic attack. Thankfully my GP also showed my 23 yr ok’d daughter how to inject my B12. Yes, I understood it’s for life, so hence my needing to get to where I can inject myself. I’m still a work in progress. I’ve read and seen videos to stretch and hold the skin tight and others have said big pinch and inject, that’s how my GP taught me. Thoughts?!

[Nackapan]

If you are feeling better and seeing improvements ,do not change a thing!! I also have tried sprays tablets. They have not worked even to get me to the next injection.

Hooe they do give you a boost .

Btw I haven't a diagnosis of PA but know I need injections for life.

PAnegPA I think called

[Palizmine]

I used nascobal for almost a year. It works but is no where near as effective. I now use it when I have overdone sun and sweating because it can nurse me through to my next shot. However it is NOT a substitute for injections.

[GStew74 in reply to Palizmine]

Thank you! This is so helpful hearing this positive information. I’m so new to having PA and still learning. I’m finally feeling much better almost normal having started injections in August 2020, I’ll try the spray for a month in between injections if needed. However everyone on the Facebook group for PA have also said the same as here.... stick to injections.

[briarhillcat]

Hello GStew74. For pernicious anaemia injections are the best option.