General FAQs
What's Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is an “essential” nutrient, meaning that it is not produced in the body. It is mainly found in animal products (fish, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy), although some foods are fortified with B12. Because vitamin B12 is water-soluble, it is not stored in the body and must be replenished regularly. Vitamin B12 is vital to optimal health, and thus, it is the base of all our nutrient cocktails and IV formulas.
How much Vitamin B12 do I need?
Everyone’s optimal level of Vitamin B12 is unique. On average, the value of > 600 pg/ml is sufficient, but B12 LOVE medical professionals recommend > 900 pg/ml for optimal wellness.
What are the symptoms of a Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Fatigue, nerve pain, sleep disturbances, moodiness, cognitive decline, and tremors. Systems affected by B12 deficiency: neurological; hematologic; immunologic; vascular; gastrointestinal; musculoskeletal; genitourinary.
Why get an injection or IV?
While they are not a replacement for a healthy diet and lifestyle, nutrient injections and IVs are a fantastic way to boost your energy and overall wellness on a regular basis. Because they bypass the digestive tract and can cross the blood-brain barrier, the nutrients and hydration in injections and IVs are 100% absorbed by our bodies’ cells. Whether you’re battling an illness or simply preparing for a big week, you will feel the benefits faster!
Who can benefit from nutrient injections and IV Vitamin Drips?
Vegetarians, vegans, people 50+ years, people who drink alcohol, people with digestive issues, anyone regularly taking Prilosec and Tums, or people who have recently had a medical procedure using nitrous oxide.
Is there a way to test my Vitamin B12 levels?
Yes! We recommend measuring Vitamin B12, homocysteine, and MMA to determine the most accurate level of Vitamin B12 in your body. Visit our sister company Urban Medicine to schedule a lab test appointment.
Are nutrient injections and IV Vitamin Drips safe during pregnancy and/or while nursing?
Yes! Nutrient injections and IV Vitamin Drips are completely safe. In fact, our founder and CEO first began administering B12 injections to her pregnant patients during her time as a midwife. We offer Vitamin B12, Methylfolate, and B6 to pregnant and nursing women.
Will a Vitamin B12 injection interfere with my medications?
No. There are no known contraindications with any medications.
Is Vitamin B12 found in food?
Large amounts of Vitamin B12 are in liver, beef, salmon, trout, tuna, sardines, and clams. Smaller amounts are available in eggs, yogurt, cheese, and cereal products fortified with Vitamin B12.
If I receive a nutrient injection should I still take oral supplements and or medications?
Yes. Unless advised by your physician and/or a B12 LOVE medical practitioner, there is no reason to stop taking your oral vitamins and other medications while receiving treatments from B12 LOVE.
B12 LOVE Treatments
When will I feel the benefits? How long do they last?
While everyone’s response to the treatments will be different, clients generally feel some noticeable benefits within 24 hours. As a rule, the more depleted you are, the faster your body will go through the nutrients. Most of our loyal clients report feeling the benefits for up to a week.
Are there side effects from Injections/IVs?
Bruising at the injection/IV site. A small bruise and/or soreness at the site are completely normal. The bruise should fade as a normal bruise would. The soreness should also go away within a few days. Let B12 LOVE medical staff know about it the next time you visit.
Pink or orange colored urine. You may notice a slight pink or orange tint to your urine for 1-2 days post treatment. This is completely normal and does not mean you are “wasting” your nutrients. The color is from red crystalline structures that naturally occur in Vitamin B12
Allergic reactions. While allergic reactions to the nutrients or equipment used are rare, it is possible. Generally, these reactions occur during or shortly after treatment, and so, are easy to recognize. B12 LOVE’s medical professionals are trained and prepared to treat adverse reactions. Always let the staff know if you have any known allergies to food, medication, or other substances before receiving a treatment.
How often should I receive treatment?
With some exceptions, most of our nutrients are safe to get as often as you feel is necessary. We find that the more stress people are under, the more often they need to visit for an injection or IV. The majority of clients enjoy getting treatments 3 – 4 times per month.
Can anyone get a B12 injection or IV?
The nutrients offered at B12 LOVE are generally safe and effective for the majority of the population. During your initial visit, B12 LOVE medical staff will go over your health history to determine if there are any contraindications. Always let the staff know if you have any known allergies to food, medication, or other substances before receiving a treatment.
Additionally, while children can most certainly benefit from our nutrients, B12 LOVE does not offer injections to children under 13 years of age or IVs to persons under 18 years of age. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. B12 LOVE offers specific injection and IV formulas for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How long do the treatments take?
B12 LOVE’s trained and licensed medical staff go to great lengths to ensure that all treatments are delivered comfortably and in an efficient manner. Injections are generally quick, easy, and received with minimal discomfort. While wait times vary, most injection clients are in and out within 15 minutes and report minimal to no “down time” or negative side effects after the injection.
While each individual’s body and experience is unique, IV clients can expect their treatment to take approximately 60-90 minutes. Most IV clients report feeling refreshed and/or relaxed after their treatment with minimal to no “down time” or negative side effects.
How often should one receive an IV vitamin drip treatment?
The number of treatments varies by person and health situation. The first IV drip at B12 LOVE can take up to 90 minutes. Following IV vitamin drip treatments are around 45-60 minutes and could be given weekly. Frequency depends on your preference and personal treatment plan for a long-lasting and maximum benefit.
Who administers the IVs?
IV treatments are administered by licensed Naturopathic Doctors teamed with Naturopathic Medical Assistants, and Registered Nurses. The treatment involves a small, expertly-inserted needle, with minimal discomfort. B12 LOVE only uses top quality health care supplies and the highest available grade of nutrients compounded in the U.S.A.
Do I need to make an appointment for an IV vitamin drip at the B12 LOVE lounge?
No. However, if you are pressed for time, or coming with a group of 3 or more, then we highly encourage that you make an appointment.First time IV visits will require time to register in the system and a longer medical intake, so please allow for up 90 minutes. Although, times may vary on a case by case basis. Subsequent visits for IV drips may take 45-60 minutes.
Why does it take 45+ minutes to get in IV drip at the B12 LOVE Lounge?
The three reasons why it can take 45+ minutes is because:
1) Your safety is our top priority. Therefore our medical team provides a comprehensive intake to determine if and which IV is appropriate.
2) We handcraft our IV drips on site, and upon arrival, which maximizes the potency of the nutrients in the IV drip.
3) We pack our IV drips with many nutrients (hence the color of the bags), because of this, first time IV clients may experience a slight achiness in the arm where they are receiving the IV drip. This feeling is entirely normal, and everyone has different levels of sensitivity. To help reduce any achiness, we offer a slower drip rate for first timers to ease the discomfort.
B12 LOVE Locations
Do you take appointments?
We do take appointments for IV Vitamin drips (only available at our IV Lounges). As for Vitamin Injections, we do not take appointments. Vitamin injections are offered on a first come, first serve basis.
Do I need to eat something before visiting?
Yes. Please eat a substantial meal before coming in to receive a service.
How long does a visit it take?
Clients are usually in and out within 5-20 minutes when receiving a vitamin injection. For those getting an IV Vitamin Drip, we recommend giving yourself 60-75 minutes. Please keep in mind that times may vary based on day and location.
Which injection is best for me?
Visit any of our locations and our experienced medical staff can guide you in the right direction.
Who administers the injections?
Licensed naturopathic doctors, trained naturopathic medical assistants, and registered nurses administer the injections.
What is a naturopathic doctor?
Naturopathic doctors are primary care doctors trained at board-accredited 4-year graduate schools. Training includes clinical physical diagnosis, pathology, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, botanical medicine, homeopathy, clinical nutrition, physical medicine, pharmacology and more.
I want to speak more in-depth with your medical team. When is a good time to do that?
Happy Hours only allow for 5 minute consultations. If you would like to speak with a naturopathic doctor about specific health issues, goals, and ailments, let him or her know. Most B12 LOVE doctors run successful and well-established patient care practices, and most offer free 15-minute consultations to potential new patients at their private practice.
How does your team know which shot is best for me?
A member from our medical team will do a brief intake on your first visit. During the intake, he or she will listen to your health concerns, allergies and health goals and will recommend a shot for that visit. These recommendations may vary from week to week.
Can kids receive Vitamin B12 injections?
While Vitamin B12 is totally safe and necessary for kids, B12 LOVE does not treat people under 13 years of age. All patients under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a guardian. Young children receiving injections of any kind should consult with his or her doctor during a patient care appointment.
Why don’t you have a certain vitamin/nutrient available?
B12 LOVE is constantly researching the vitamin/nutrient market to source the best injectable vitamins for our clients. As a result, occasionally, we will not have access to all of the vitamins/nutrients on our menu. We do our very best to supply all vitamins/nutrients on our menu at every Happy Hour location, but providing only the finest quality products is always our main priority.
What is your Kindness Policy?
Kindness Policy: Aggression and/or rude behavior towards staff and/or clients will not be allowed at B12 LOVE Lounges or Happy Hours. Those unable/ unwilling to comply will be asked to permanently leave
What is your Pet Policy?
Pets are not allowed into an area where a medical service is performed unless your pet an ADA service animal.
B12 LOVE Nutrients
What forms of Vitamin B12 do you use?
We use Methylcobalamin and Hydroxocobalamin which are the superior, most bioactive forms of injectable Vitamin B12.
What other nutrients does B12 LOVE offer?
B12 LOVE offers a range of bioavailable nutrients that can help support modern day lifestyles, including:
- Vitamins B5, B6, and B-complex
- Biotin
- Vitamin C (IV only)
- Vitamin D (injection only)
- Taurine
- Magnesium
- Zinc, Selenium, Calcium (IV only)
- L-Carnitine
- MIC – Methionine, Inositol, Choline
- L-Lysine
- Glutathione
- CoQ10 (injection only)
- NAD+
- Amino Acid Blend
- Homeopathic treatments for immune function, pain, inflammation, neuropathy, muscle spasms, and lymphatic drainage.
Are your nutrients vegan? Where do they come from?
Yes! Our nutrients are sourced on a bacteria medium that is plant-based. B12 LOVE carries only the highest quality, bioavailable nutrients from reputable compounding pharmacies in the U.S.A.
What is a “detox effect” from Glutathione?
The “detox effect” can include fluish symptoms for 24-48 hours. This side effect subsides with additional injections and your body becomes more efficient in eliminating toxins and free radicals. Please feel free to email us at info@B12Love.com and we can make some suggestions to reduce these symptoms.
Why can I “taste” the B Cocktail injection?
Clients may notice a specific, usually pleasant, taste after an injection that includes B complex. This is normal and indicates that your body is utilizing the injection.
Payments & Purchases
Do shot packages expire?
No. In fact, all of our services are valid until they are redeemed.
Can I use my shot package at any B12 LOVE location?
Yes. You can redeem your shot package at any of our locations.
Does B12 LOVE accept insurance?
No. B12 LOVE is not affiliated with any insurance companies. Payment is required at the time of the service.
What forms of payment do you accept?
B12 LOVE accepts cash and all major credit cards.
What is your return policy?
Unused shots, shot packages, and opened products may not be returned or refunded.
Can I check my B12 LOVE account to see how many shots I have remaining in my package?
This can be done easily by creating an online profile on our system. To do so, please use this link and click “Need new password?” and enter the email address that you used when first registered at one of our locations. Once registered, you can:
- View remaining shots in your package
- Purchase individual shots, packages, or gift cards
- update your account information
Nutrient Information
Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin or Hydroxocobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is an especially important vitamin for maintaining healthy nerve cells, and it helps in the production of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material. Vitamin B12 works closely with vitamin B9, also called folate or folic acid, to help make red blood cells and to help iron work better in the body.
Treatment for: Fatigue, insomnia, depression, chronic pain, herpes, anxiety, brain fog, anemia
Food sources: Animal based: fish, beef, dairy, eggs, poultry.
MIC (Methionine, Inositol, Choline)
MIC assists in lowering serum cholesterol levels. Choline promotes a healthy liver by enabling it to metabolize fatty deposits. It works with inositol to help emulsify fats and cholesterol.
Treatment for: Prevents fatty liver, balances blood sugars, helps control carb cravings, insomnia, lowers triglycerides, anxiety, diabetes
Food Sources: Eggs, soy, dark leafy greens
Caution: Caution if have bipolar disorder.
B5 (Dexpanthenol)
B5 synthesizes and metabolizes fats, proteins, and coenzyme A.
Treatment for: Energy, adrenal stress, acne, allergies, helps breakdown fats and carbs
Food Sources: Liver, mushrooms, grains, dairy, meat, veggies, nuts, sweet potatoes, avocados, dark leafy greens
Caution: Can keep some people awake.
B6 (Pyridoxine or Pyridoxal 5 phosphate)
Vitamin B6 helps the body make several neurotransmitters, chemicals that carry signals from one nerve cell to another. It is needed for normal brain development and function, and helps the body make the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which influence mood, and melatonin, which regulates the body’s internal clock of sleep and wake cycles.
Treatment for: PMS, insomnia, depression, morning sickness, neuropathy
Food sources: Potatoes, bananas, meat, poultry, fish, grains
Caution: Injection might sting a bit.
Lipo Formula (B12, B complex, MIC, L-Carnitine mixed)
Treatment for: Immune support, weight loss, supports cardiac and skeletal muscles, nerve pain, fatigue
Food Sources: L-Carnitine is found in animal products (meat, fish, poultry, and milk).
Caution: Injection might sting a bit. Contains MIC, caution if have bipolar disorder.
B Complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6)
B Complex plays an important role in keeping our bodies running like well-oiled machines. These essential nutrients help convert our food into fuel, allowing us to stay energized throughout the day.
Treatment for: Immune support, neuropathic pain
Food Sources: Brewer’s yeast, leafy greens
Medication Interactions: Birth control depletes all B vitamins. Alcohol depletes B vitamins.
Caution: Injection might sting a bit.
Biotin (B7)
Along with helping the body metabolize fats and carbohydrates, biotin has been linked to improving hair health and maintaining proper functions of the nervous system.
Treatment for: Hair growth, skin, nails, diabetes, depression, low biotin (pregnancy can deplete biotin)
Food Sources: Egg yolk, liver, meat, fish, poultry, dairy, veggies
Caution: Interferes with thyroid lab results
Glutathione (GSH)
Glutathione is the master antioxidant and detoxifier of every cell in your body. It is composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine. Glutathione is the most important antioxidant produced by the body. It prevents cellular damage caused by free radicals and peroxides.
Treatment for: Detoxification, liver health, immune support, allergies, Parkinson’s, brightens and lightens skin
Food Sources: n/a
Caution: Injection might sting a bit.
Detox reaction: Feeling fatigued, slightly nauseous, slightly flu-ish for 12-48 hours, but noticeable increase in energy and well-being after detox subsides.
Taurine
A sulfur-containing amino acid important in the metabolism of fats. It is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine.
Treatment for: Stabilizes cell membranes, cardiovascular health (congestive heart failure), diabetes, cirrhosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver, eye health, muscle recovery, mood (calming, concentration, mood), can lower blood pressure
Food sources: Animal products
Caution: People with epilepsy, patients receiving chemotherapy treatments, and people on lithium.
Methylfolate
Methylfolate is the active form of Folic Acid.
Treatment for: Anemia, prevention of miscarriages, depression/dementia, restless legs
Food Sources: Leafy greens, berries, salmon, spinach, eggs, dairy, grains
Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt)
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral that is important for many systems in the body, especially the muscles and nerves. Magnesium sulfate also increases water in the intestines. Orally, magnesium sulfate is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Treatment for: Heart issues, muscle cramps, pain, headaches/migraines, anxiety, fatigue, stress, hypertension, PMS
Food Sources: Almonds, tofu, spinach, beans, chocolate, etc.
Caution: Injection might sting a bit. Magnesium Sulfate is not water soluble.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is called the “sunshine vitamin” because it’s produced in your skin in response to sunlight. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin in a family of compounds that includes vitamins D-1, D-2, and D-3.
Treatment for: Vitamin D deficiency, immune support, mood, bone health, fatigue, autoimmune diseases
Food Sources: Fortified food, cod liver oil, oily fish.
Caution: Injection contains sesame oil. Vitamin D is not water soluble.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Promotes healing and supports the immune system. Vitamin C also functions as an anti-oxidant, anti-histamine, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial. Intravenous administration of vitamin C reduces the severity of the common cold. Only available with IV’s.
Calcium Gluconate
Given with vitamin C in order to prevent hypocalcemia (low calcium). Only available with IV’s.
Selenium
Functions as an anti-oxidant. It is a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase and for the conversion of thyroid hormone to it’s active form. Selenium enhances immune function and has antiviral effects. Only available with IV’s.
Zinc Sulfate
Zinc promotes wound healing and enhances immune function. It is anti-inflammatory and an anti-viral against some viruses. Zinc also promotes the conversion of thyroid hormone to its active form. Only available with IVs.
FYI: B12 LOVE is constantly researching the vitamin/nutrient market to source the best injectable vitamins for our clients. As a result, occasionally, we will not have access to all of the vitamins/nutrients on our menu. We do our very best to supply all vitamins/nutrients on our menu at every Happy Hour location, but providing only the finest quality products is always our main priority. We greatly appreciate your understanding.