From the Research
Managing elevated vitamin B12 levels typically involves addressing the underlying cause rather than directly lowering B12 itself, and the most recent evidence suggests that elevated B12 levels are associated with a higher risk of cancer, with risk ratios ranging 1.88 to 5.9 1. When dealing with elevated vitamin B12 levels, it's crucial to identify the root cause, which could range from over-supplementation to underlying medical conditions such as liver disease, kidney dysfunction, certain blood disorders, or some cancers.
- Discontinuing any unnecessary B12 supplements or multivitamins containing B12 is a first step.
- If high-dose B12 supplements are being taken, gradually reducing the dosage under medical supervision is advisable.
- For individuals with elevated B12 due to medical conditions, treatment should focus on the primary condition.
- No specific medications exist solely to lower B12 levels, and dietary changes alone are unlikely to significantly reduce elevated B12 since the body efficiently stores this vitamin.
- A healthcare provider may recommend regular blood tests to monitor levels while treating the underlying cause, and persistently high levels without supplementation warrant medical investigation to rule out serious conditions, as suggested by recent studies 2, 1. Key considerations include the potential for macro-vitamin B12 to cause falsely elevated cobalamin levels 2, and the association between metformin use and vitamin B12 deficiency, which may lead to or worsen neuropathy in diabetic patients 3. Given the potential risks associated with elevated B12 levels, including an increased risk of cancer 1, it's essential to approach management with a focus on identifying and treating the underlying cause, rather than solely attempting to lower B12 levels.