Indications
Riboflavine Sodium Phosphate is a water-soluble form of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). It is mainly found in combination products: multivitamin injections and infusions given in hospital, and vitamin B complex or multivitamin syrups and drops. 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 throat, and dry, scaly skin. Deficiency often occurs alongside other B vitamin deficiencies in poor diet, alcohol misuse, long illness or malabsorption.
How It Works
In the body riboflavin is turned into two coenzymes, FMN and FAD. These act as helpers for many enzymes that release energy from food, support normal growth and red blood cell production, help process other B vitamins, and keep the skin, eyes and lining of the mouth healthy. The sodium phosphate form dissolves easily in water, so it is suitable for injections and liquid medicines.
Dosage and Administration
Syrups, drops and tablets: take as directed on the label or by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. Children’s amounts depend on age and are shown on the pack. Injections and infusions: given only by a doctor or nurse, at the dose prescribed, often added to an intravenous drip.
Interactions
- Long-term use of some medicines, such as Phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants, Probenecid and some anticonvulsants, may increase the need for riboflavin.
- Alcohol reduces its absorption.
- Riboflavin can affect some urine laboratory tests by giving a yellow-green colour.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to riboflavin or any other ingredient in the product. Check the other vitamins in combination products if you have any condition where they must be avoided.
Side Effects
Riboflavin is very safe. The most common effect is bright yellow or orange urine, which is harmless. Rarely, there may be stomach upset or, with injections, pain at the injection site or allergic reactions.
Get urgent medical help if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread rash or fainting, especially during or after an injection.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Riboflavin is needed in slightly higher amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding and is safe at normal doses. Use supplements as advised by your doctor; combination products should be checked for other ingredients.
Precautions and Warnings
- Combination products contain other vitamins; follow the label and do not take several vitamin products together without advice.
- Protect liquids and injections from light, as riboflavin breaks down in light.
- Persistent mouth sores or skin problems should be checked by a doctor.
Overdose
Riboflavin has very low toxicity because excess is passed out in the urine. Overdose of combination products may cause problems from other ingredients, such as iron or vitamin A; contact a doctor if a large amount is taken, especially by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin B2 (water-soluble vitamin)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and out of the reach of children. Store 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.