Question:
Vitamin B12 & B6 shots

Any long term post ops taking injections for B12, B6? There is a weight loss clinic here that offers them. Three x's a week, for about $180/mo. A lot of people are losing a lot of weight with the injections. I currently am not taking my vitamins. I know, I know. Anyone taking the injections and see a difference? Also, do hospitals offer them for cheaper? Also, I am not willing to inject myself, nor do I want any other family or friend to. Thanks, everyone!    — mariposah (posted on November 21, 2007)

November 21, 2007
You don't say why you're not taking your vitamins, are asking about injections for weight loss, but don't want to inject yourself or have others you know do it. The cost seems exhorbitant to me, and vitamins would be a lot cheaper. Also, you would save yourself the time and gas from not having to go to the clinic 3 times a week. If it were me I'd think that I put myself through all the stuff I had to do preop as well as major surgery, and I owe myself to take care of myself the best I can and do what the doctors tell me. I'd be interested in your decison!
   — obeseforever

November 21, 2007
Why aren't you taking your vitamins?? That's a thing your must do for the rest of your life. If you happen to be anemic, then B-12 shots may be necessary. I take a liquid vitamin that tastes good, and it has 16 times the RDA of B-12, and 5 times the RDA of B-6. It's about $1 per day, after you pay for shipping--far cheaper than the prices you've quoted. It's on my member page, under ragdolldude . You can call me from the phone number on the web site listed there if you have any questions. You need to take some vitamins daily, forever.
   — Dave Chambers

November 21, 2007
First of all, you would only need B12 about every 6 weeks-- not three times a week. Secondly, becuase RNY patients lack a critical binding protein in our pouches, B12 that we take in orally (or through foods) won't be readily absorbed. So, find a sublingual (like the brand made by Trader Joe's) for your B12 which will only cost you mere pennies a day. Third, B12 is a critical vitamin--- when you are low in B12, you will have some memory problems, muscle aches and general lethargy. B6 does not need to be injected. Listen, $180/month for "vitamins" that allegedly hasten weight loss is a great scam. Don't fall for it.
   — SteveColarossi

November 21, 2007
I pay $10.99 for a vial of B-12 and have a shot 1x per month. My Mom does it for me, but the dietician at the bariatric clinic said they would show me how or do it for me. I bet your doc, PCP or otherwise would do it for you at no charge or for ALOT cheaper than $180. That is a lot of money for shots. Talk to your doc about an rx for it and see if they will just give it to you 1x every 4-6 weeks. Good luck!
   — juliebelle0402

November 21, 2007
I like you haven't started my vitamins yet...shame on me. I had my surgery on Halloween, I take my daily multi and calcium...when I remember to, it's hard. I'm taking more pills now...or should be, than before I had the surgery. Anyway, my doctor gave me a prescription for the vials of B12 and for the needles, I can either give it to myself, have my husband do it or take it to my pcp and have him do it. I will be doing that soon, it's just hard for me to get in the habit of taking the vitamins now.
   — PAWLLA L.