Indications
Riboflavine-5-Phosphate (riboflavin sodium phosphate) is a water-soluble, ready-to-use form of vitamin B2. It is used to prevent and treat vitamin B2 deficiency, which can cause cracks at the corners of the mouth, a sore red tongue, sore lips and skin problems. It is commonly included in vitamin B-complex and multivitamin products used during illness, poor diet, pregnancy, alcohol misuse and recovery, and higher doses of riboflavin are sometimes prescribed to help prevent migraine.
How It Works
Vitamin B2 is needed to make two coenzymes (FMN and FAD) that help the body turn food into energy, support healthy skin, eyes and nerves, and help recycle other vitamins such as B6 and folate. Riboflavine-5-Phosphate is already in the active phosphate form (FMN) and dissolves easily in water, so it is suitable for liquids and injections.
Dosage and Administration
Adults need about 1.1 to 1.3 mg of vitamin B2 a day from food. For deficiency, adults commonly take 5 to 30 mg daily in divided doses, or as directed on the label of the combination product. Higher doses for migraine prevention should be taken only as prescribed. Injections are given by a doctor or nurse.
Interactions
- Some medicines can lower vitamin B2 levels, including Chlorpromazine and other phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants, Probenecid and long-term use of some anticonvulsants.
- Alcohol reduces absorption.
- No serious harmful interactions are known.
Contraindications
- Allergy to riboflavin or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Vitamin B2 is very safe. It normally turns the urine bright yellow, which is harmless. High doses may occasionally cause diarrhoea or passing more urine. Allergic reactions are very rare.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash after taking it.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Vitamin B2 is safe at recommended amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, when needs are slightly higher. Do not take high doses unless your doctor advises.
Precautions and Warnings
- Vitamin B2 deficiency often occurs with other B-vitamin deficiencies, so a B-complex product may be more suitable.
- Persistent mouth sores or skin problems should be checked by a doctor.
- Bright yellow urine may interfere with some urine tests: tell the laboratory you are taking vitamins.
Overdose
Overdose is very unlikely to be harmful because excess vitamin B2 is passed out in the urine. Large amounts may cause stomach upset or diarrhoea.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin (vitamin B2, water-soluble).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light (vitamin B2 breaks down in light), and out of the reach of children. Injections: as directed on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.