Efficacy of sublingual and oral vitamin B12 versus intramuscular administration: insights from a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a widespread condition, particularly among elderly individuals, patients with malabsorption syndromes, and those following plant-based diets. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of sublingual and oral vitamin B12 administration in comparison with intramuscular (IM) injections, both for improving serum cobalamin and reducing homocysteine levels.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase up to July 2024. Eligible studies included randomised controlled trials, cohort, and case-control studies assessing B12 supplementation efficacy via oral, sublingual, or IM administration routes. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models. Subgroup analys

SUBMITTER: Mazur M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12757266 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature