Vitamin B12 Test
Vitamin B12 and Folate — the two markers behind energy, brain function and red blood cell production. Tested together because they're metabolically linked.
One-time payment of A$99. GST included. No subscription.
What this panel measures
- Vitamin B12: Required for nerve function, DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation; commonly low in vegetarians, vegans and adults over 50.
- Folate: Works hand-in-hand with B12; deficiency in either causes similar symptoms, and B12 alone can mask a folate problem.
Who this panel is for
Have you noticed any of these:
- vegetarian or vegan, or eating less meat than you used to
- brain fog, fatigue or low energy without an obvious cause
- over 50, or on metformin or long-term acid-suppressing medication
- tingling, numbness or pins-and-needles in hands or feet
- after gastric surgery or with conditions affecting absorption
- taking a B12 supplement and want to confirm absorption
How it works
- Order online, no GP referral needed.
- Visit any of 2,000+ accredited collection centres across Australia.
- Results delivered same day to your personal dashboard with clear explanations.
Sample and turnaround
Single blood draw, no fasting strictly required but morning is preferred. Stop B12 supplements 48–72 hours before testing for an accurate reading, with your doctor's input. Results back same day.
Frequently asked questions
What's included?
Two biomarkers: Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and Folate. Pathology guidelines recommend testing them together because they're metabolically linked.
Will my supplements skew the result?
Yes — recently taken B12 (especially injections or sublinguals) can elevate the reading temporarily. Stop 48–72 hours before testing if your doctor agrees.
What does low B12 cause?
Long-term low B12 can lead to fatigue, brain fog, mood changes, and in severe cases nerve damage. It's easily corrected once identified.
I'm vegan — how often should I test?
Once a year is sensible. After starting or changing a supplement, retest 8–12 weeks in to confirm absorption.
Keep reading
Guides
- Blood test without a GP referral — Yes — most common blood tests can be self-ordered in Australia. How direct-to-consumer pathology works, what's available, and when you should still see a GP first.
- Private blood test cost — Private blood tests in Australia range from $35 for single biomarkers up to $500+ for comprehensive panels. What you're paying for, what drives the cost, and when private testing is worth it.
Biomarkers explained
- Vitamin B12 — B12 is essential for nerve function and red blood cell production — and it's commonly low in vegetarians, vegans, and adults over 50.
- Ferritin — Ferritin is the gold-standard marker for your iron stores — more reliable than measuring iron in your blood directly.
- Vitamin D — Vitamin D is the most-tested nutrient in Australia — and one of the most commonly low, even with our climate.