Hi,
My name is Jen and I have been diagnosed with pernicious anemia within the last year. I'm in my twenties and have noticed a significant change in my hair and nails. My hair has become very dull, dry, wiry and premature gray. My nails very brittle. Any suggestions? I am unable to absorb the vitamin B-12 so I have an absence of intrinsic factor. I get an injection every month for treatment . This is something I discovered by chance and pretty much diagnosed myself with the help of my family physician. I was then referred to a hematologist who was a little more helpful but stunned by my age. I know the seriousness of this condition through study of my own. I have also read many of the articles on this site and found it surprising that many of you can give your own injections? I repeatedly asked my physician if I could do my own injections and he said it is considered a controlled substance. Is this is something that is different in every state? I find it a bit ridiculous that I'm required to pay an office visit when I'm only seeing an nurse for a few seconds. Do you have any other resources to offer? I would much appreciate it. Thanks... Jen

I believe it does vary depending what state you're in, but I'm not sure. I live in California and I have a friend who gives himself his own B-12 injections. The only problem I would see with giving yourself your own injections would be the issue of obtaining the needle - but if it's prescribed and you get it from your pharmacist there shouldn't be an issue? It seems as though it would be the same process that diabetics go through...I'm just thinking outloud....sorry I can't give you more a more substantial answer...

I've been giving my own for over 8 yrs, once a week. It is not a controlled substance, it's just a vitamin. I think he wants that office visit money he won't get if you give your own. I had no problem with my neuro, the pharmacy gives me a months supply of syringes and a 3 month supply of the cobalamin. Really, he likes the money of the office visit, insist that you do your own (nurse can show you how)tell him it is difficult to get there sometimes. I give mine in my thighs and my hubby gives them in the arms so I rotate, b12 does tear down the muscle after years of injections and even with rotation my skin on the arms are sensitive.

[This message has been edited by NancyH (edited 09-29-2003).]

I to have prenicous anemia, I was diaganosed about 3 yrs ago. I too have to go to the dr. for my shot, I have tried and tried to talk him into letting me do it myself, but so far have had no such luck.

Thanks to everyone has replied! I really appreciate all the advice given. Thanks....Jen

It is not controlled but it is perscription.

He may not want to do it for the first few times until he makes sure you've got the hang of it, but it shouldn't be an issue long term.

FYI, if you just see a nurse, many insurances don't charge a copay.