Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12 (adenosylcobalamin)
For the health condition: Dementia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B12 (adenosylcobalamin) is scientifically recognized as essential for normal neurological function, and B12 deficiency is a well-established, reversible cause of cognitive impairment and dementia-like symptoms. The evidence supporting B12 supplementation for dementia is strongest in individuals with a documented deficiency. Clinical studies have demonstrated that correcting B12 deficiency can improve cognitive function and may reverse dementia symptoms in these cases. However, for patients with dementia who have normal B12 levels, randomized controlled trials have not shown significant cognitive benefits from supplementation. As such, major guidelines recommend checking B12 status in anyone presenting with cognitive decline and treating only if deficiency is present. While B12 is not a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease or other neurodegenerative dementias per se, its use is justified in cases of deficiency to prevent or reverse cognitive symptoms. The overall evidence for B12 supplementation in unselected dementia patients (regardless of B12 status) is limited, which is reflected in the moderate evidence rating.

References:

  • O’Leary F, Samman S. Vitamin B12 in health and disease. Nutrients. 2010;2(3):299-316.
  • Moore E, et al. Cognitive impairment and vitamin B12: a review. International Psychogeriatrics. 2012;24(4):541-556.
  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Dementia: assessment, management and support for people living with dementia and their carers. NICE guideline [NG97], 2018.

More about Vitamin B12 (adenosylcobalamin)
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