Vitamin B12 injections are widely available on various web sites and at weight loss clinics, spas and cosmetic stores. They promise weight loss, increased energy and a boost to metabolism.

However, B12 injections require a prescription and should be administered only under the direction of certain medical professionals. Individuals who unlawfully dispense or administer vitamin B12 injections can be prosecuted for a Class 4 felony. 

In 2016, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) issued a regulatory advisory that B12 shots require prescriptions in Illinois. The department had taken action against health spas and vitamin shops in Illinois for administering vitamin B12 shots.

Learn more with ISMS’ medical legal guideline, Vitamin B12 Injections.*

If you have any questions, please contact ISMS' legal department at 800-782-4767 or by email. 

This ISMS medical legal guideline is a member benefit and is password protected.

If you need to request a username and password, contact online support at 888-476-7776 or onlinehelp@isms.org between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. After-hours requests are answered promptly the next business day. You may also register online or retrieve your username or password.

*This guideline is for educational purposes only.