Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, which is more commonly referred to as vitamin B6, is responsible for helping the body convert food into energy. It is also used to form neurotransmitters in the brain and assist with cell development. As well, the presence of vitamin B6 is necessary for the body to be able to process vitamin B12. This vitamin is water-soluble, meaning the body isn’t able to store any amounts of it. As a result, deficiencies is this vitamin are common, especially among people with auto-immune disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and alcoholism.
The symptoms of a vitamin B6 deficiency are easy to spot and include a swollen tongue, confusion, rashes, and scale-like skin. It is possible to consume too much vitamin B6, although this is rare for people who do not take a supplement. The symptoms of consuming too much vitamin B6 are usually only seen in people who take more than 250 mg daily.
What is Vitamin B6 Used for?
Vitamin B6 is used to treat several conditions, including:
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Anemia
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Heart disease
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High cholesterol
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Clogged arteries after surgery
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Alzheimer’s disease
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Migraines
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Autism
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Skin conditions
It is also often prescribed for women for a variety of reasons. Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome use vitamin B6 to help relieve the pain of cramps. During the early stages of pregnancy vitamin B6 is recommended for women experiencing nausea and vomiting, and after childbirth, it can be used to stop the production of milk. Taking vitamin B6 during pregnancy is also important as it aids in the development of the baby’s immune system, and helps to ensure proper brain function.
Also, depression caused by birth control, pregnancy, or menopause can be alleviated by taking vitamin B6.
How is Vitamin B6 Consumed?
This vitamin can be consumed naturally or as a supplement in pill form. The foods that are highest in vitamin B6 include organ meat such as beef liver, fish, beans, non-citrus fruit, and starchy vegetables such as potatoes. When taken orally as a daily supplement in an otherwise healthy individual, the dose can range from 2.5 mg to 25 mg. When it is used a treatment for women with a vitamin deficiency as a result of birth control pills, the dose increases to 30 mg per day. For treating other diseases, the dosage can range anywhere from 25 mg to 600 mg.
Interactions with Medications
Vitamin B6 interactions with a handful of medications, such as Amiodarone, Phenobarbital, and Phenytoin. Amiodarone, sold as Cordarone, may cause an increased sensitivity to light when consumed with vitamin B6. This is turn increases the likelihood of sunburn, rashes, and blisters. The brand name Luminol contains Phenobarbital, which is used to treat seizures and epilepsy. Vitamin B6 can affect the rate at which Phenobarbital is broken down by the body, changing how effective the medication is.
Another anti-seizure medication, sold as Phenytoin, can be affected by vitamin B6. When the two are combined the user risks an increase in the likelihood of a seizure.