An evaluation of the efficacy of injectable microencapsulated Vitamin B₁₂ in increasing and maintaining the serum and liver Vitamin B₁₂ concentrations of lambs

Abstract

Aim. To develop a long-acting vitamin B, injection to prevent Co deficiency in sheep.

Methods. Formulations of microencapsulated Vitamin B₁₂ in lactide-glycolide polymers were injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously into the anterior neck region of groups of 10 lambs and their efficacy determined from changes in serum and liver Vitamin B₁₂ concentrations.

Results. The 955 lactide glycolide and the 100 lactide formulations containing more than 12.5% Vitamin B₁₂ w/w significantly increased and maintained serum Vitamin B₁₂ concentrations for at least 210 days as well as liver Vitamin B₁₂ concentrations in treated lambs when compared with untreated controls.

Conclusions. Injections of microencapsulated Vitamin B₁₂ in lactide-glycolide copolymers are able to increase and maintain the Vitamin B₁₂ status of lambs for at least 210 days.

Clinical significance. Another option for the prevention of Co deficiency in sheep is now available using a long acting injectable Vitamin B₁₂.

Key words:

• Sheep
• Co deficiency
• long-acting injection
• Vitamin B₁₂