Can B12 and Micobalance Help Restore My Lost Sense of Smell?

Q: Can B12 and Micobalance Help Restore My Lost Sense of Smell?

Hello： If there has already been damage to the olfactory nerve, recovery may be more challenging. <br>Vitamin B12 can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies or community drugstores; it may be worth trying, but it is likely to help maintain the current condition and reduce fu

Should I supplement with Micobalance for the loss of smell? What else can I do?

Hello, doctor.
Two years ago, I had an accident where I fell from a height, resulting in a skull fracture at the back of my head, intracranial hemorrhage, and a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3.
I was in a coma in the intensive care unit for over a month before regaining consciousness.
After being discharged, I returned for follow-up visits with the neurosurgeon, but during this time, no physician mentioned the possibility of olfactory loss, so I did not pay attention to it.
A few weeks ago, while using a household insecticide spray, I realized I could not smell it.
I then tested other strongly scented items at home, like perfumes, and discovered that I could not smell anything at all.
Since I noticed this quite late (over two years later), I immediately asked my family to take me to Taichung Veterans General Hospital for an olfactory test.
The doctor there said my condition was very severe and asked whether I wanted treatment or just a diagnostic certificate.
Naturally, I hope to restore my original condition, so I expressed my desire for treatment.
I also consulted other ENT specialists about what else I could do to help.
The doctors suggested that I supplement with B vitamins, which I have been doing for 1-2 weeks.
Recently, I found online articles stating that Vitamin B12 has nerve repair properties, and some users mentioned a medication called "Mecobalamin." Can I purchase this on my own, or should I ask my doctor for a prescription to supplement it further? Additionally, could you recommend any specialized doctors or hospitals in southern Taiwan (Tainan, Kaohsiung) that I could consult for assistance with my olfactory loss recovery? I sincerely hope to restore as much function as possible, at least 50% would be great.
Thank you for your advice, doctor.

Xiao Lu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/27

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology

Hello: If there has already been damage to the olfactory nerve, recovery may be more challenging.
Vitamin B12 can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies or community drugstores; it may be worth trying, but it is likely to help maintain the current condition and reduce further damage, while the already damaged areas may be difficult to restore.

Reply Date: 2022/05/27

More Info

The loss of smell, known as anosmia, can be a distressing condition, especially following a significant injury such as a skull fracture and intracranial hemorrhage. Your experience of losing your sense of smell after such a traumatic event is not uncommon, as damage to the olfactory nerve can occur due to head trauma. The fact that you have only recently discovered this loss, two years post-injury, indicates that the effects of your injury may have been subtle or masked by other symptoms during your recovery.

Regarding your inquiry about Vitamin B12 and Micobalance (Mecobalamin), there is some evidence suggesting that Vitamin B12 plays a role in nerve health and regeneration. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological issues, including peripheral neuropathy, which may affect sensory functions. However, while supplementation with B12 may help maintain nerve health and potentially prevent further deterioration, it is important to note that it may not necessarily restore lost function in nerves that have already been damaged.

Mecobalamin, a form of Vitamin B12, is often used in clinical settings to support nerve repair and regeneration. It is available in various forms, including oral tablets and injections. You can certainly discuss with your physician the possibility of incorporating Mecobalamin into your treatment plan. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially considering your medical history and current medications.

In terms of your question about whether you can purchase these supplements on your own, while Vitamin B12 is available over-the-counter in many pharmacies, it is always best to have a healthcare provider's guidance to ensure that you are taking the appropriate dosage and form for your specific needs.

As for finding specialists in southern Taiwan (Tainan, Kaohsiung) who can assist with your condition, I recommend seeking out an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) or a neurologist who has experience in treating anosmia. These specialists can conduct further evaluations, including olfactory testing, and may offer additional treatment options tailored to your situation. Hospitals affiliated with universities or major medical centers often have specialists with the expertise needed for complex cases like yours.

In summary, while Vitamin B12 and Mecobalamin may support nerve health, their effectiveness in restoring your sense of smell after significant nerve damage is uncertain. It is crucial to work closely with your healthcare providers to explore all available options and to monitor your condition. Your desire to regain at least some of your olfactory function is understandable, and with the right support and treatment, there may be avenues to explore that could help improve your situation.

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