Vitamin B supplementation for diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to neurological issues, particularly peripheral neuropathy.
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence on vitamin B12 supplementation for treating DPN.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of vitamin B12 in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.

Main Methods:

• Searched PubMed and Cochrane Central Register for randomized controlled trials up to December 2014.
• Included studies assessed vitamin B12 or its coenzyme forms for DPN treatment.
• Evaluated changes in vibration perception, neuropathic symptoms, nerve conduction, and adverse effects.

Main Results:

• Four studies with 363 patients met the inclusion criteria.
• No evidence found that oral vitamin B12 supplements improve clinical symptoms of DPN.
• Most studies reported no improvement in electrophysiological markers of nerve conduction.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence does not support the use of vitamin B12 supplementation for DPN.
• Further investigation into effective DPN treatments is warranted.