Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is an essential water-soluble vitamin with several forms, including pyridoxine and pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, found in fish, poultry, potatoes and bananas.
Also listed as pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, pyridoxal, pyridoxal phosphate
How much is too much?
EFSA set an adult upper limit of 12 mg daily from all sources in 2023, including pregnancy and breastfeeding, based on peripheral neuropathy risk. This means damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord; the limit is not a recommended dose. 1
Which symptoms deserve attention?
Tingling, burning or numbness in hands or feet can signal supplement-related nerve damage. TGA advises stopping the implicated products and seeking medical advice if these symptoms occur; cases have been reported below 50 mg daily. 2
Which medicines need a review?
Some epilepsy medicines lower B6 status, while high-dose B6 can reduce phenytoin or phenobarbital concentrations. NIH recommends discussing B6 with a clinician when using regular medicines. 3
For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.
Sources
- Health supplements containing vitamin B6 can cause peripheral neuropathy Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2022