Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Feb 01, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about B12


What’s the difference between B12 and cyanocobalamin?

Cyanocobalamin is the synthetic (man-made) form of B12. It is stable and cost-effective and is commonly used in vitamin supplements.



How much B12 (cyanocobalamin) should I take?

According to the Food and Nutrition Board, adults should take 2.4 mcg of B12 from food, fortified food, and vitamin supplements.



Can B12 cause rapid weight gain?

There is very little evidence to support that B12 can influence weight gain or weight loss. However, excess intake of B vitamins in the form of supplements may contribute to obesity. Always check with your doctor before starting any vitamin supplementation.

Source: Study



What causes B12 deficiency?

People who have a condition called pernicious anemia lack a natural substance needed to absorb B12 from the intestines and can develop a B12 deficiency. Also, people who follow special dietary instructions, for example, a strict vegetarian diet, can develop B12 deficiency. On the other hand, people who eat a standard diet, including meat, fish, and dairy products, usually get enough B12 from food.



What happens if B12 is low?

Low B12 levels can lead to neurological symptoms, nerve damage, and a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia. Signs and symptoms of low B12 include glossitis (inflammation of the tongue), fatigue, pale skin, palpitations, weight loss, numbness and tingling, infertility, and dementia. 



What is the price of B12 without insurance?

Without insurance, B12 can be as high as $20.55, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $16.99 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of B12 with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on B12—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for B12. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.