The mainstay for cobalamin deficiency is correction of the underlying disorder and replacement therapy. Because the defect is often one of absorption, parenteral or intranasal routes are recommended. In most cases, replacement therapy is all that is needed. The vitamin preparation most commonly used NEW YORK-- Popular drugs that are used to control stomach acid may increase the risk of a serious vitamin deficiency, suggests a new study. Folate, or folic acid, is a type of B vitamin. It helps to: make DNA; repair DNA; produce red blood cells ; If you don’t have enough folate in your diet, you may end up with a folate deficiency. The authors found a statistically significant difference in mean serum vitamin B 12 and methylmalonic acid levels and frequency of vitamin B 12 deficiency at baseline between long-term PPI users compared with nonusers (75% versus 11%, p = 0.006). According to the FDA, the recommended daily value in order to prevent folate deficiency is set at 400 micrograms and 600 micrograms for pregnant women, however, we know that obtaining this level from synthetic folic acid is not as beneficial as getting natural folate from folate-rich foods. Uses: It is approved for Anemia, Spina Bifida and Folic Acid Deficiency and is mostly mentioned together with these indications. Our data suggest that some patients take it for Depression and Hair Loss, although this is not an approved use*. Prilosec, the brand name for omeprazole, is a medication to treat too much stomach acid. It can affect the absorption of certain nutrients, including calcium, folic acid and vitamin B-12, so you may need to supplement your intake of these nutrients. Prilosec and B12 Folic Acid « on: April 20, 2006, 06:53:09 PM » I earlier posted I need help which I still do and have a doctors appointment, but meanwhile, last night, I looked into reactions to Prilosec, which I had taken for a few days leading up to my first symptoms. More severe cases of deficiency are the result of nerve damage, and these can include numbness and tingling, changes in mood, or even memory problems. If you have any concerns, let your doctor know. If you have any concerns, let your doctor know. Since I have been taking the folic acid (presciption) and B12 the tingling, pins and needles and pain in my hands have stopped. The blue fingernails still occur but not as frequent. My tongue does not hurt any more either. So as you can see there are quite a few simularities between your symptoms and mine. Your tongue could be related to either a vitamin deficiency or the reflux. They could.