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Vitamin B-12 500 mcg

Swanson Premium Brand
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(14078 ratings)
Vitamin B12 500 mcg
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Score81
A clearly stated cyanocobalamin amount provides focused B12 coverage in a convenient swallowed capsule. Benefits are most likely when B12 intake or status is low, not as an acute energy boost.
How scoring works
Quantity:30 Capsule(s) • (30 servings)
Goals:
Energy
General Health
Productivity Boost
Hair Health

Score 81

A clearly stated cyanocobalamin amount provides focused B12 coverage in a convenient swallowed capsule. Benefits are most likely when B12 intake or status is low, not as an acute energy boost.
How scoring works
$3.09($0.10 per serving)
iHerb
$ 3.99
iHerb
$ 3.09
Amazon
$ 0.00
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Analysis

The 500 mcg amount is clearly stated and fits targeted B12 supplementation better than basic dietary coverage. B12 supports normal red blood cell formation, nerve function, and energy metabolism, with the clearest value when intake or status is inadequate.

Cyanocobalamin is stable and usable, but it requires conversion before entering active coenzyme pathways. swallowed capsule provides a simple dosing format, though complete inactive-ingredient and intake details are not supplied.

The single-ingredient design is easy to assess and avoids unrelated active compounds. The short supply and low serving cost make it most practical for users with a clear reason to supplement rather than anyone seeking an immediate energy or hair-growth effect.

Who is it for
  • Adults with low dietary B12 intake
  • People seeking a focused single-nutrient supplement
  • Users who prefer swallowed capsule
Best for
  • Targeted vitamin B12 coverage
  • Supporting B12 adequacy
  • A simple daily supplement routine

Pros

  • Clearly identifies cyanocobalamin
  • Discloses the 500 mcg amount
  • Short supply
  • Swallowed capsule is easy to use

Cons

  • Uses a non-coenzyme B12 form
  • Does not cover other common nutrient gaps
  • Unlikely to boost energy when B12 status is adequate
  • Inactive-ingredient details are not supplied

Nutrient quality

80 Highest impact

Cyanocobalamin is stable and usable but less direct than active coenzyme forms, and the moderate amount can support elevated needs. The narrow formula is coherent, though benefit for energy or hair depends mainly on B12 status.

Ingredient transparency

84 Highest impact

The B12 form and amount are clearly disclosed. Complete usage directions and non-active ingredients are not supplied.

Customer satisfaction

71 High impact

The supplied average rating is strong and the review base is exceptionally large. No review text is available to assess repeated complaints or experiences tied to the intended use.

Value for money

87 Highest impact

The moderate B12 amount and clear active disclosure support formula value. The very low serving cost makes the product competitive within the category.

Report analysis

Goals

Energy
Energy
Impact
High effect
A- Goal FitB Strength of SupportC- CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Vitamin B12 · 500 mcg

Vitamin B12 supports energy metabolism and red-blood-cell formation when status is inadequate. The 500 mcg serving exceeds the stated functional threshold and clearly identifies cyanocobalamin.

Cyanocobalamin is less preferred than active coenzyme forms, and a swallowed capsule offers no special absorption route. The narrow formula provides useful B12 depth but no mitochondrial, stimulant, or adaptogen breadth.

Study evidence
Vitamin B12 Disputed 14 studies
General Health
General Health
Impact
High effect
A- Goal FitB- Strength of SupportD+ CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Vitamin B12 · 500 mcg

Vitamin B12 is foundational for red blood cell formation, nerve function, and cellular energy metabolism. The benefit is most relevant for people with low intake, impaired absorption, or deficiency risk.

The 500 mcg amount is substantial and clearly disclosed, while cyanocobalamin remains a well-established but less preferred form than active coenzyme options. A swallowed capsule is simple and focused but offers no mucosal absorption advantage.

Study evidence
Vitamin B12 Adverse 66 studies
Productivity Boost
Productivity Boost
Impact
High effect
C Goal FitC+ Strength of SupportD- CoverageA Formula Quality
Vitamin B12 · 500 mcgVitamin B12 · 500 mcg

Vitamin B12 supports normal neurological function and energy metabolism, especially when intake or absorption is inadequate. Human evidence supports correcting deficiency-related fatigue and cognitive slowing rather than raising productivity in people with adequate status.

The 500 mcg amount is clearly disclosed and provides a moderate supplemental serving. Cyanocobalamin is less preferred than active coenzyme forms, and the swallowed capsule has no mucosal absorption advantage. The single-active formula remains narrow and does not provide alertness or stress-resilience support.

Study evidence
Vitamin B12 Supportive 15 studies
Vitamin B12 No effect 17 studies
Hair Health
Hair Health
Impact
Moderate effect
C- Goal FitC+ Strength of SupportF CoverageB+ Formula Quality

Vitamin B12 may help hair shedding tied to low B12 status or anemia-related oxygen delivery. It offers little direct hair support when B12 status is already adequate.

The 500 mcg amount is clearly stated and meaningful, though cyanocobalamin is less preferred than active coenzyme forms. A simple capsule keeps the formula focused but leaves structural, mineral, and antioxidant pathways uncovered.

Study evidence
Vitamin B12 Disputed 17 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per serving
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
 500 mcg
Adults 18–50
Report overview
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) · 500 mcg OverallScore56
F Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityB Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyB- Value

The capsule provides a moderate B12 amount with clear form and dose disclosure. Cyanocobalamin is less preferred than active coenzyme forms, and the swallowed format offers no mucosal absorption advantage. Cost efficiency is good for a short supply.

View ingredientView products
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Jarrow Formulas
The more focused formula provides 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin, plus 1.5 mg of Vitamin B6 and 680 mcg DFE of Folate. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
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Methyl B-12 Natural Cherry Flavor

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The more focused formula provides 5,000 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
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B12 Energizer+ Natural Cherry Flavor

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The more focused formula provides 5,000 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
86 Budget

Quick Dissolve B-12 Methylcobalamin 2500 mcg

Nature's Bounty
The lower serving cost still provides 2,500 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
87 Budget

Chewable Fully Active B12 Chocolate Mint Flavor 1000 mcg

Doctor's Best
The lower serving cost still provides 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
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B12 Methylcobalamin 1000 mcg

Natural Factors
The lower serving cost still provides 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
86 Value

Vitamin B12 2000 mcg

Nutricost
The favorable serving cost pairs 2,000 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin with a simple ingredient profile. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
87 Value

Fully Active B12 1500 mcg

Doctor's Best
The favorable serving cost pairs 1,500 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin with a simple ingredient profile. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
85 Value

Vegan B12 2500 mcg

DEVA
The favorable serving cost pairs 2,500 mcg of vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin with a simple ingredient profile. Compared with the original, it provides a larger vitamin B12 amount and uses Methylcobalamin instead of Cyanocobalamin.
Report alternatives

Sources

Published studies used for the product analysis and the top-ranked studies for each ingredient and goal.

  1. Cobalamin deficiency: clinical picture and radiological findings.
    Briani C; Dalla Torre C; Citton V; Manara R; Pompanin S; Binotto G; Adami F · Nutrients · 2014
    Narrative reviewEnergy forVitamin B12
  2. Vitamin B12 Supplementation: Is More Always Better?
    Yepes-Calderón M; Doorenbos CSE; Stegmann ME; Touw DJ; Harmsen HJM; Heiner-Fokkema MR; van Spronsen FJ; Corpeleijn E; Bakker SJL · Nutrients · 2026
    Narrative reviewEnergy forVitamin B12
  3. Dermatological findings of vitamin B12 deficiency and resolving time of these symptoms.
    Demir N; Doğan M; Koç A; Kaba S; Bulan K; Ozkol HU; Doğan SZ · Cutaneous and ocular toxicology · 2014
    Single-arm trial57 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  4. Micronutrient Deficiencies and Digital Computerized Phototrichogram Analysis in Telogen Effluvium: a Retrospective Correlation Study in a Tertiary Medical Center.
    Arslan H; Gündüz Ö · Dermatology practical & conceptual · 2023
    Observational study973 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  5. A new perspective on vitamin B12 deficiency in rheumatology: a case-based review.
    Dułak NA; Rytlewska M; Jaskólska M; Chmielewski M · Rheumatology international · 2024
    Case series3 participantsEnergy forVitamin B12
  6. Effects of Vitamin B12 Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Depressive Symptoms, and Fatigue: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression.
    Markun S; Gravestock I; Jäger L; Rosemann T; Pichierri G; Burgstaller JM · Nutrients · 2021
    Meta-analysis6,276 participants16 studies pooledEnergy forVitamin B12
  7. Patients' experiences with methylcobalamin injections in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
    Zubair AS; Saab L; Scharer K; Khokhar B · Brain circulation · 2024
    Qualitative study5 participantsEnergy forVitamin B12
  8. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Common Questions and Answers.
    Patel H; McGuirk R · American family physician · 2025
    Narrative reviewEnergy forVitamin B12
  9. Oral Vitamin B12 versus Placebo for the Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Gynecological Cancer Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
    Insin P; Chaiwongsa T; Prueksaritanond N · Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP · 2026
    Randomized trial40 participantsGeneral Health forVitamin B12
  10. Vitamin B12 Supplementation in Diabetic Neuropathy: A 1-Year, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
    Didangelos T; Karlafti E; Kotzakioulafi E; Margariti E; Giannoulaki P; Batanis G; Tesfaye S; Kantartzis K · Nutrients · 2021
    Randomized trial90 participantsGeneral Health forVitamin B12
  11. A single-center randomized controlled trial of local methylcobalamin injection for subacute herpetic neuralgia.
    Xu G; Lv ZW; Feng Y; Tang WZ; Xu GX · Pain medicine (Malden, Mass.) · 2014
    Randomized trial98 participantsGeneral Health forVitamin B12
  12. Local Injection of Methylcobalamin Combined with Lidocaine for Acute Herpetic Neuralgia.
    Xǔ G; Xu S; Tang WZ; Xú G; Cheng C; Xu J · Pain medicine (Malden, Mass.) · 2017
    Randomized trial204 participantsGeneral Health forVitamin B12
  13. The Effect of Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Supplementation on Serum Homocysteine, Anemia Status and Quality of Life of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis.
    Nozari E; Ghavamzadeh S; Razazian N · Clinical nutrition research · 2022
    Clinical trial50 participantsGeneral Health forVitamin B12
  14. Quantitative Analysis of Selected Circulating Hematological Biomarkers, Essential Minerals, Vitamins, and Thyroid Hormones in Females Affected by Hair Loss.
    Al-Fawaeir S; Al-Odat I · Diseases (Basel, Switzerland) · 2025
    Case-control study200 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  15. Factors Associated with Premature Hair Graying in a Young Indian Population.
    Chakrabarty S; Krishnappa PG; Gowda DG; Hiremath J · International journal of trichology · 2016
    Case-control study74 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  16. Risk Factors for Pediatric Alopecia Areata: Clinical and Biochemical Findings from a Case - Control Study.
    İritaş SY · Dermatology practical & conceptual · 2026
    Case-control study600 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  17. Hair Loss After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.
    Katsogridaki G; Tzovaras G; Sioka E; Perivoliotis K; Zachari E; Magouliotis D; Tasiopoulou V; Chatedaki C; Zacharoulis D · Obesity surgery · 2019
    Cohort study50 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  18. Demographic Characteristics and Association of Serum Vitamin B12, Ferritin and Thyroid Function with Premature Canities in Indian Patients from an Urban Skin Clinic of North India: A Retrospective Analysis of 71 Cases.
    Sonthalia S; Priya A; Tobin DJ · Indian journal of dermatology · 2022
    Cross-sectional study71 participantsHair Health forVitamin B12
  19. Effects of Folic Acid and Vitamin B12, Alone and in Combination on Cognitive Function and Inflammatory Factors in the Elderly with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Single-blind Experimental Design.
    Ma F; Zhou X; Li Q; Zhao J; Song A; An P; Du Y; Xu W; Huang G · Current Alzheimer research · 2020
    Randomized trial240 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  20. Effects of Physical Activity and Micronutrients on Cognitive Performance in Children Aged 6 to 11 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
    Meli AM; Ali A; Mhd Jalil AM; Mohd Yusof H; Tan MMC · Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) · 2022
    Meta-analysisProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  21. Cognitive function in an elderly population: interaction between vitamin B12 status, depression, and apolipoprotein E ε4: the Hordaland Homocysteine Study.
    Vogiatzoglou A; Smith AD; Nurk E; Drevon CA; Ueland PM; Vollset SE; Nygaard HA; Engedal K; Tell GS; Refsum H · Psychosomatic medicine · 2013
    Cross-sectional study1,935 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  22. Cognitive profile and inflammatory markers in children and adolescents with specific learning disorder: a cross-sectional study.
    Balatacı U; Ay B · Frontiers in pediatrics · 2026
    Case-control study108 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  23. Association between vitamin B12 levels and cognitive impairment in older adults.
    Aguilar-Navarro SG; Carbajal-Silva JC; Palacios-Hernández MGI; Gutiérrez-Gutierrez LA; Ávila-Funes JA; Mimenza-Alvarado AJ · Gaceta medica de Mexico · 2023
    Cross-sectional study241 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  24. Effects of vitamin B12 on performance and circadian rhythm in normal subjects.
    Mayer G; Kröger M; Meier-Ewert K · Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology · 1997
    Randomized trial20 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  25. Prenatal vitamin B12 status and cognitive functioning in children at 4 years of age: The ECLIPSES Study.
    Cruz-Rodríguez J; Canals-Sans J; Hernández-Martínez C; Voltas-Moreso N; Arija V · Maternal & child nutrition · 2023
    Cohort study249 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  26. Dietary intakes and biomarker patterns of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 can be associated with cognitive impairment by hypermethylation of redox-related genes NUDT15 and TXNRD1.
    An Y; Feng L; Zhang X; Wang Y; Wang Y; Tao L; Qin Z; Xiao R · Clinical epigenetics · 2020
    Cohort study2,533 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12
  27. Homocysteine, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12 blood levels in relation to cognitive performance: the Maine-Syracuse study.
    Elias MF; Robbins MA; Budge MM; Elias PK; Brennan SL; Johnston C; Nagy Z; Bates CJ · Psychosomatic medicine · 2008
    Cross-sectional study812 participantsProductivity Boost forVitamin B12