Administering a Intramuscular B12 Injection

Disclaimer: Do not administer any injections unless prescribed by a physician.

Hydroxocobalamin or B12 is a supplement used to treat or prevent a deficiency of the vitamin in the body. B12 is used by the body to help transform fat and carbohydrates into energy, as well as create new protein. A balanced diet will usually provide a person with enough B12. If someone is suffering from lack of B12 due to poor nutrition, cancer, infection or anemia, a doctor may prescribe the supplement.

The dosage will be 0.5 ml administered into the center of the deltoid muscle.

List of supplies.

Vial of B12 prescribed by doctor with accompanying syringes

Alcohol swab to disinfect area of administration

Cotton ball or gauze to control any bleeding

Bandage to protect injection site

Once proper dosage is drawn, inspect syringe and make sure there are no air bubbles present, expel some fluid to clear needle of air.

Thoroughly disinfect injection site with alcohol swab and let completely dry before administering.

Pinch deltoid and impale needle directly into the muscle, quickly inject the supplement and retract the needle from the skin.