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The Vitamin B12 Test is a single-marker blood test measuring vitamin B12, a nutrient essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation, processed by London Medical Laboratory (LML), a UKAS-accredited ISO 15189 laboratory, and sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
Key facts
| Test type | Single-marker vitamin B12 blood test |
|---|---|
| No. of biomarkers | 1 — vitamin B12 |
| Sample | Blood — in-store phlebotomy or at-home finger-prick |
| Laboratory | London Medical Laboratory (LML) — UKAS-accredited (ISO 15189) |
| Turnaround | Typically 3–5 working days from when the lab receives your sample |
| Options | In-store at Holborn London, or at-home self-collection kit |
| Location | Holborn London — 77 Southampton Row, WC1B 4ET |
| Sold by | Ways Pharmacy, UK (GPhC-registered) |
Who it is for
- People following a plant-based or vegan diet, where dietary B12 intake is naturally lower
- People with tiredness, low energy, pins and needles, or other non-specific symptoms who want to check B12 status
- Older adults and people with absorption conditions, who are more likely to run low on B12
- People taking a B12 supplement who want to confirm their level is in range
Not suitable for: acutely unwell people who need urgent medical assessment; use as a substitute for diagnostic assessment by a doctor.
What is measured
- Vitamin B12 — a B vitamin needed for a healthy nervous system and the formation of red blood cells. Low levels can affect blood and overall health and are more common in people on a plant-based diet.
How it works
- Complete payment online and choose your option: an appointment at Holborn London, or an at-home self-collection kit posted to you.
- For in-store, attend Ways Pharmacy, 77 Southampton Row, London WC1B 4ET, where a trained operator takes a blood sample. For at-home, follow the kit instructions to collect a finger-prick sample and return it in the prepaid packaging.
- Your sample is sent to London Medical Laboratory for analysis.
- You receive a written report with your result against the reference range, typically within 3–5 working days of the lab receiving your sample.
- A pharmacist can talk you through the result and, where appropriate, recommend GP follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before a vitamin B12 test?
No. Vitamin B12 testing does not require fasting, so you can eat and drink as normal before your sample. Take your regular medications as usual unless your GP has advised otherwise.
How long do results take?
Results are typically returned 3 to 5 working days after London Medical Laboratory receives your sample. You will receive a written report showing your level against the reference range.
Is the laboratory accredited?
Yes. Samples are processed by London Medical Laboratory (LML), a UKAS-accredited laboratory operating to ISO 15189, the international standard for medical testing laboratories.
Should I test B12 if I am vegan or vegetarian?
A plant-based diet provides little vitamin B12, so people who eat little or no animal produce are more likely to run low over time. A B12 test gives you an objective level, which is useful if you are considering or already taking a supplement.
What if my B12 is low?
A low result does not diagnose a condition on its own. The pharmacist will explain what your level means and recommend GP follow-up where appropriate. Reference ranges are provided with your report.
When to seek further advice
This test does not diagnose a condition. Reference ranges are provided with your report; discuss your results with a clinician, and if a result is abnormal, follow it up with your GP. Seek prompt medical advice if you feel acutely unwell.
This is a private health screening service. Results are interpretive and do not replace clinical diagnosis by a GP or specialist. Abnormal results should be followed up with your GP.
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