Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in people who eat little or no animal produce, older adults and those taking some long-term medicines. Many UAE vendors list a B12 or B-complex drip. It is worth knowing that B12 is also given as a quick intramuscular injection or as tablets, and a blood test is the only way to confirm a deficiency. A clinician may recommend testing first rather than treating a guess.
What it typically contains
- Vitamin B12 — typically as cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin, depending on the clinic.
- B-complex — thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), B5 and B6 in varying amounts.
- Fluid base — a small bag of saline to carry the vitamins.
Formulations vary by provider. The final ingredients, doses and infusion rate are decided by the licensed clinician after assessing you, and may differ from this list.
Who usually asks for it
- Vegetarians and vegans whose blood tests show low B12.
- Adults who feel persistently tired and are already investigating why with a doctor.
- People who dislike tablets and prefer a clinic-administered option.
Who should not have it, or must check with a doctor first
- Unexplained tiredness can have many causes — thyroid, iron, sleep, mood — so testing matters before assuming B12.
- Allergy to cobalt or cobalamin products, and certain eye conditions (Leber's disease), must be disclosed.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding need clinical advice on doses.
What happens at the appointment
This is one of the shorter drips. The nurse checks your history and, ideally, recent blood results, then runs a small bag. Some urine colour change from riboflavin is normal and harmless.
- You send the request on WhatsApp or in the app with your address, preferred time and any health conditions.
- A licensed clinician screens you: medical history, medicines, allergies and vital signs. They can decline or refer you elsewhere.
- If suitable, a nurse places a small cannula and stays with you for the whole infusion, adjusting the rate if needed.
- The cannula is removed, the site is dressed, and you are told what to watch for afterwards.
How often do people have it?
If a deficiency is confirmed, the doctor sets a schedule and rechecks blood levels. Without a deficiency, regular drips are hard to justify; ask what the plan and end point are.
What affects the price
- B12 alone versus the full B-complex.
- Whether a blood test is added before or after.
- Drip versus injection, which can be quicker and simpler.
- Single visit or a scheduled course.
Tamam does not publish fixed prices for medical services. The vendor confirms the cost for your exact request before you agree to anything.
Who is allowed to give IV drips in the UAE
IV therapy is a medical procedure. In the UAE it must be given by a licensed doctor or nurse working for a licensed healthcare facility, after an assessment. In Dubai, providers are licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), or by the Dubai Healthcare City Authority for facilities in Dubai Healthcare City. In Abu Dhabi, including Al Ain, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) regulates providers. In Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, private providers operate under the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) licensing framework. You can ask the nurse for their licence details at any time.
Medical disclaimer and emergencies
This page is general service information, not medical advice. A licensed provider must assess suitability, consent and any prescription or referral requirements. If symptoms are severe, sudden or life-threatening, contact the UAE emergency services instead of waiting for a home appointment.
999 · 998 In an emergency call 999, or 998 for an ambulance. Do not wait for a home appointment if you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, fainting, a severe headache or signs of heat stroke.
Related drips
Frequently asked questions
Should I test my B12 first?
It is sensible. Tamam can also arrange a home blood test, and the result helps the clinician decide whether you need treatment at all.
Is a B12 shot the same as a drip?
Both deliver B12; an injection is quick and often enough. The drip format is usually chosen when combined with fluids or other vitamins.
Why is my urine bright yellow afterwards?
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is excreted in urine and changes its colour. It is expected and harmless.
Book this drip
Send the drip name, your area and a preferred time on WhatsApp, or book in the Tamam app. A licensed vendor confirms availability and the clinician's screening questions before anything is scheduled.
Ask about Vitamin B12 and B-complex drip on WhatsApp