Skip to main content

Learn how to apply for an Illinois Cemetery Relief Fund Grant before the October 24, 2025 deadline by going here

Learn more about IDFPR's work behind the headlines on our new Hub webpage!

Regulatory Advisory: B12 Shots Require Pharmacy Prescription in Illinois

News Release – Tuesday, May 10, 2016

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) is reminding both consumers and businesses that vitamin B12 injections require a prescription in Illinois and may only be administered under the direct supervision of a medical provider. Licensed medical providers include: MDs, DOs, APNs, or PAs.

The Advisory comes as IDFPR has taken recent action against health spas and vitamin shops in Illinois for administering and dispensing vitamin B12 shots. It is unlawful for a company that is not a licensed health care entity or owned by a physician or advanced practice nurse to offer vitamin B12 shots. Unlicensed administering and dispensing of B12 injections in Illinois is considered unlicensed practice of medicine, a Class 4 felony that also carries civil penalties.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Footer