Indications
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is used to prevent and treat vitamin B6 deficiency, which can happen with poor diet, alcohol use, and some medicines such as Isoniazid. It is used to prevent nerve problems in people taking Isoniazid for tuberculosis, and doctors may use it for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. It is a common part of B-complex and multivitamin products.
How It Works
Vitamin B6 helps enzymes that break down protein, make red blood cells and keep nerves and the brain working normally.
Dosage and Administration
Adults, deficiency: usually 10 to 50 mg a day, or as the doctor advises. With Isoniazid: commonly 10 to 25 mg a day. Nausea of pregnancy: only as advised by the doctor. Take by mouth with or without food.
Interactions
High doses can weaken the effect of Levodopa when it is taken without Carbidopa, and can lower the levels of Phenytoin and Phenobarbital. Isoniazid, Penicillamine and Hydralazine increase the body’s need for vitamin B6.
Contraindications
Allergy to pyridoxine or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Occasionally nausea, headache or drowsiness. Taking very high doses (around 200 mg a day or more) for months can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling and unsteady walking, which usually improves after stopping.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Safe at normal recommended doses. Avoid high doses unless a doctor advises them.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not take high doses for a long time without medical advice. Stop and see a doctor if you notice numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
Overdose
A single large dose is unlikely to cause serious harm. Long-term high doses can cause nerve damage; stop taking it and seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin B (water-soluble vitamin).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.