Vitamin B12 injection may not improve vocal performance in singers: JAMA

Israel: Empirical vitamin B12 injection did not do much in improving mild voice-related symptoms in singers, according to a recent study in the journal JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery. The study found no meaningful difference in self-reported voice measures in singers with vitamin B12 injection compared to placebo.

About one-third of singers and vocal professionals have reportedly benefited from empirical vitamin B12 injections for improving mild singing-related symptoms (eg, reduced stamina, vocal fatigue, and effort). However, there is absence of evidence to either support or refute the claims. To fill this knowledge gap, Hagit Shoffel-Havakuk, Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Israel, and colleagues assessed the presence and magnitude of the effect of empirical vitamin B12 injection on the vocal performance of singers.

For the purpose, the researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial from November 7, 2017, to November 30, 2018, at an academic voice center among 20 active adult singers without dysphonia but with mild vocal symptoms. The study excluded patients with known or suspected vitamin B12 deficiency or active or recent vitamin B12 treatment.

The 20 participants were randomized to receive an intramuscular (deltoid) injection of either vitamin B12 (1000 μg of cyanocobalmin) or placebo (0.9% sodium chloride). After a washout period of at least 4 weeks, participants were crossed over to receive the opposite injection. Both the investigators and participants were blinded to the order of injections.