B12 shots? how effective for depression?

I was told to take vitamin B complex for depression. I was wondering about B-12 shots? Should I ask my doctor about getting B12 shots? Would I still take the B12 supplements? How long do they last? Are they more effective than the pills?

B12 shots are not used for depression treatment. They are used for other medical problems unrelated to depression.

B complex vitamins contain all of the B vitamins, not just B12, and are good for health in general. Some people find that a B complex elevates their mood.

Ask your doctor about trying SAM-e. Some people take it to treat depression. If you do, then follow the directions on the box very carefully and don't combine SAM-e with other anti-depressants or St Johns Wort.

The theory on Vit B12 was that they thought it worked for dementia. In reality, the people who benefited from the treatment had been misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's when in fact they suffered from megaloblastic anemia. Therefore, when given the Vit B12 their neurological symptoms ceased to progress.

So, anyways, you may take the supplements if you want, it is unlikely that they will cause you any harm. However, they might not be of much help for your depression either. I suggest you consult with your doctor before taking any kind of over the counter drugs or supplements as they might interact with your prescribed medications.

Well, hope this helps! Good luck & take care! =)

Your body absorbs more medication when given as an injection--so with a shot, you'd be able to have a smaller dose. Another good supplement is fish oil. I'm not sure how long B12 shots last, they are typically given for anemia--but my friend's grandma went once a week to get her shot. Not sure of the effectiveness, but an antidepressant medication would probably cost about the same...

Not for depression for anemia /