Pyridoxine, otherwise known as vitamin B6, is important in maintaining the health of our nerves, skin, and red blood cells. It is found in foods such as meat, poultry, bananas, avocados, nuts, and whole grains. Most people acquire the needed amount of vitamin B6 in their normal diet. However, some conditions and medications may cause some people to become deficient in vitamin B6. This is when supplementation is necessary.
Dosage Strength
- Dosage depends on the patient’s medical conditions and needs. Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any medication or supplement.
General Information
What is Pyridoxine?
Pyridoxine, otherwise known as vitamin B6, is important in maintaining the health of our nerves, skin, and red blood cells. It is found in foods such as meat, poultry, bananas, avocados, nuts, and whole grains. Most people acquire the needed amount of vitamin B6 in their normal diet. However, some conditions and medications may cause some people to become deficient in vitamin B6. This is when supplementation is necessary.
Vitamin B6 Benefits
Adequate levels of vitamin B6 are necessary to produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, meaning it plays an important role in regulating our mood. Supplementing with B6 has been studied as a potential treatment for mood disorders, depression, and PMS.
Pyridoxine is also used in the production of hemoglobin, which ensures cells are well-fed by transporting oxygen; as such, B6 supplementation is being studied for the treatment of anemia. With its key role in supporting blood cell health, it’s no surprise vitamin B6 is important to the cardiovascular system. Low blood levels of vitamin B6 have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease when compared to individuals with higher B6 levels. It may also aid in reducing inflammation throughout the body.
What Causes Pyridoxine Deficiency?
Pyridoxine deficiency is usually caused by medications that inhibit the absorption or deactivate vitamin B6, including some epilepsy medications. Malnutrition, alcoholism, kidney disease, certain autoimmune disorders, and digestive disorders that lead to malabsorption can also lead to a vitamin B6 deficiency. Advanced age is also a risk factor. Prolonged deficiency has been linked to changes in blood, skin, and nerve tissues, leading to conditions like peripheral neuropathy.
Indications
Pyridoxine is indicated in those with vitamin B6 deficiency, peripheral neuropathy, anemia, heart disease, and high cholesterol. It may also be used to help treat nausea in pregnancy and in elevating mood and energy levels.
Side Effects
When taken in the recommended doses, pyridoxine usually has no side effects. When taken in a large dose and for a long period of time, some side effects may occur. If you experience any headache, nausea, drowsiness, numbness, or tingling in the arms and/or legs, please make sure to tell your doctor. Serious drug reactions are rare but can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Pyridoxine Dosage
Pyridoxine dosage depends on the patient’s medical conditions and needs. Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any medication or supplement.
Contraindications
There are no contraindications for pyridoxine.
Interactions
A number of medications may interact with pyridoxine. This is why it is very important to always bring a list of the current medications and products you are using when speaking with your physician.
Pyroxidine is known to reduce the effectiveness of altretamine, especially when combined with cisplatin. Other known interactions include barbiturates, fosphenytoin (Cerebyx, Sesquient), phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek), and Levodopa. Taking any of these medications in combination with vitamin B6 may decrease their effectiveness.
This vitamin may interfere with certain laboratory testing, causing false results. Make sure to always inform your doctors and lab personnel before any tests.
