Does anesthesia deplete B12? A Comprehensive Look at Nitrous Oxide's Impact
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4 min read
Nitrous oxide, a common component of many anesthetic procedures, has been shown in animal studies to deplete as much as 60% of the body's stored vitamin B12. This potent inactivation can lead to serious neurological and hematological complications, especially in vulnerable patients with pre-existing deficiencies. Understanding how and why certain anesthesia medications deplete B12 is crucial for patient safety.