Vitamin B6 Side Effects
Generic Name: pyridoxine
Note: This page contains side effects data for the generic drug pyridoxine. It is possible that some of the dosage forms included below may not apply to the brand name Vitamin B6.
For the Consumer
Applies to pyridoxine: capsule, injectable, solution, tablet, tablet enteric coated, tablet extended release
As well as its needed effects, pyridoxine (the active ingredient contained in Vitamin B6) may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.
Severity: Moderate
If any of the following side effects occur while taking pyridoxine, check with your doctor or nurse as soon as possible:
With large doses- Clumsiness
- numbness of hands or feet
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to pyridoxine: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral tablet
Nervous system
The profound sensory loss following treatment with high doses of parenteral pyridoxine (the active ingredient contained in Vitamin B6) may not be reversible.[Ref]
Nervous system side effects have included sensory neuropathy with axonal degeneration. The adverse neurologic side effects have been reported following a single large dose (10 g) administered intravenously. It may rarely occur following chronic administration of lower doses. Peripheral sensory neuropathy has also been reported.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitivity side effects have been reported rarely.[Ref]
Dermatologic
Dermatologic side effects have included allergic contact dermatitis. Photosensitivity has been confirmed in a female patient taking pyridoxine (the active ingredient contained in Vitamin B6) 100 mg orally daily.[Ref]
References
1. Albin RL, Albers JW "Long-term follow-up of pyridoxine-induced acute sensory neuropathy- neuronopathy." Neurology 40 (1990): 1319
2. "Multum Information Services, Inc. Expert Review Panel"
3. Morimoto K, Kawada A, Hiruma M, Ishibashi A "Photosensitivity from pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin b-6)." J Am Acad Dermatol 35 (1996): 304-5
4. Camarasa JG, Serra-Baldrich E, Lluch M "Contact allergy to vitamin B6." Contact Dermatitis 23 (1990): 115
It is possible that some side effects of Vitamin B6 may not have been reported. These can be reported to the FDA here. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Consumer resources
- Other brands: Aminoxin
Professional resources
Related treatment guides
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