Please don't worry â
B12 injections do not directly reduce
ferritin. What actually happens is this: B12 is essential for making red blood cells. When you start B12 treatment after being deficient, your body suddenly starts producing more red blood cells. Making more red blood cells requires iron, so your body uses up some of its iron stores (ferritin) in the process. This is actually a sign that the B12 is working correctly â your body is finally able to make the blood cells it couldn't before. The ferritin dip from this effect is usually modest. However, since your ferritin is already borderline low at 18, you should ask your doctor to also prescribe an iron supplement alongside your B12 injections to replenish your iron stores â this is especially important as a vegetarian.
Next Steps
Continue your
B12 injections as prescribed and ask your doctor to add an iron supplement given your borderline
ferritin. Recheck both levels after 6-8 weeks. Please consult me directly on Practo for a detailed evaluation.