General
Vitamin B12
Lab test

Vitamin B12

Recommended for people on long-term metformin or proton pump inhibitors, those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, adults over 50 with absorption concerns, and anyone with fatigue, nerve symptoms, or mood changes that may reflect a B12 deficiency. No fasting required. Results reviewed by a General Medicine clinician.

Receive actionable insights and deep analysis—not just lab values– in as little as 48 hours

Clear guidance, and follow-up care available

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Most insurance accepted

Board-certified

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Available nationwide

What is a Vitamin B12 Test?

The Vitamin B12 test measures circulating cobalamin — an essential vitamin required for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and neurological function. Because B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products and requires specific absorption pathways, deficiency is common in at-risk groups and can cause irreversible nerve damage if it goes undetected and untreated for long enough.

Deficiency detection and anemia evaluation

Low B12 impairs red blood cell production, causing megaloblastic anemia — characterized by large, dysfunctional red cells. B12 testing distinguishes this from other anemia types and identifies deficiency at a stage where treatment prevents neurological progression.

Neurological and cognitive symptoms

B12 deficiency can cause peripheral neuropathy, balance problems, memory changes, and mood disturbance — sometimes before anemia develops. Testing is an important step in any evaluation of unexplained neurological symptoms, particularly in older adults and people with absorption risk factors.

High-risk group monitoring

People with pernicious anemia, Crohn's or celiac disease, gastric surgery, long-term metformin use, or a vegetarian or vegan diet are at elevated risk. Regular testing confirms that dietary intake or supplementation is maintaining adequate levels over time.

Complete insights in as little as 48 hours

1

Book your test

Instantly schedule at 2,000+ labs nationwide, at a time that works for you. Most visits take 15 minutes or less, with both walk-ins and appointments available.

2

Get results in 48 hours

Your results are delivered quickly—and reviewed by medical professionals. You’ll get clear explanations, robust health insights, and recommended next steps tailored to your health needs.

3

Take action with physician guidance

Choose to review your results and manage your plan with a General Medicine physician—or simply use the insights on your own.

4

Track progress over time

Repeat annually to see trends, improvements, and new emerging risks or book individual tests that focus on your set goals

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We help you understand your options, connect you to the right clinicians, manage prescriptions, coordinate any needed evaluations, and keep an eye on your overall health along the way. It’s comprehensive care that looks at the full picture — your goals, your history, your lifestyle — and makes it simple to move forward with confidence.

Your care plan
Clinician

What's included

Test type

Blood sample

Collection method

Venipuncture

Fasting

Required

Results processing time

1 to 3 days

Vitamin B12

An essential vitamin that supports nerve health, energy production, and red blood cell formation. Deficiency can lead to fatigue, mood changes, and neurological issues.

Virtual visit with clinician

Ongoing support, always available.

You’ll be supported by experienced clinicians who care for a wide range of health needs, from everyday concerns to more complex conditions.

Our clinicians track your progress over time and adjust your care as needed. If medication is prescribed, we’ll manage dosing and monitor for side effects. If lab testing is recommended, we review results and refine your plan accordingly. You’re never left to navigate care on your own.

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Frequently asked questions

What does a Vitamin B12 test measure?

The test measures B12 (cobalamin) levels in the blood. B12 is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia, neurological damage (peripheral neuropathy, cognitive changes), and fatigue — and can be irreversible if severe deficiency persists.

Do I need to fast before a B12 test?

No fasting is required. B12 levels are not significantly affected by recent food intake. However, recent B12 injections or high-dose supplements can temporarily elevate levels — mention these when your results are reviewed.

Who is at risk for B12 deficiency?

Vegetarians and vegans (B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products), people over 50 (reduced gastric acid impairs absorption), those taking metformin or long-term proton pump inhibitors, people with pernicious anemia, and those with GI conditions affecting absorption (Crohn's, celiac, gastric surgery).

My B12 is in the 'normal' range but on the lower end — should I be concerned?

Yes — B12 deficiency can cause symptoms at levels that technically fall within the reference range. Many clinicians consider levels below 300–350 pg/mL worth treating in symptomatic patients, even if the lab reference range starts at 200 pg/mL. Functional markers like methylmalonic acid can assess true tissue deficiency.

Can I treat B12 deficiency with oral supplements, or do I need injections?

For most people without absorption problems, high-dose oral B12 (1000 mcg daily) is as effective as injections. For pernicious anemia or significant malabsorption, injections may be preferred. A clinician can advise based on the cause and severity of your deficiency.