The efficacy of a subcutaneous injection of soluble vitamin B12 in lambs

Aims. To assess the efficacy of a soluble Vitamin B-12 injection in lambs by measuring changes in the serum and liver Vitamin B-12 concentrations. Methods. Thirty-six lambs were injected subcutaneously with 2 mg of soluble Vitamin B-12 while another group of 36 served as untreated controls. Blood and liver biopsy samples far Vitamin B-12 determinations were collected just before the injection and at days 1, 2, 5, 8, 16, 24, 30 and 45. Results. The serum Vitamin B-12 concentrations of the Vitamin B-12 treated lambs increased rapidly compared to the untreated lambs. Concentrations peaked at day 2, decreased rapidly to day 8, and then decreased more slowly until day 24 when there were no longer differences between the groups. Liver Vitamin B-12 concentrations of the Vitamin B-12 treated lambs were significantly greater over days 8-24. Conclusion. A subcutaneous injection of 2 mg of soluble Vitamin B-12 was effective in increasing and maintaining the Vitamin B-12 status of lambs for about 24 days. Clinical significance. This Vitamin B-12 product is only effective for preventing cobalt deficiency in lambs for about 4 weeks.