Vitamins B6 (pyroxidine) and B12 (cobalamin) are water soluble vitamins. Vitamin B6 supports protein metabolism, red blood cell metabolism, immune function and a healthy nervous system. The body needs vitamin B12 for red blood cell formation, brain function and DNA synthesis. According to Medline Plus a lack of either B6 or B12 can lead to anemia. Foods containing B6 and B12 include fish, poultry, meat, eggs, dairy products, leafy green vegetables, beans and peas. Side effects of vitamin B6 and B12 exist however individuals who have difficulty consuming enough B vitamins through their diet or have existing medical conditions and take supplements may still benefit from supplementation.
Skin Problems
Itching is a common side effect of vitamin B12 supplements according to the Mayo Clinic. Other rare side effects of B12 include rash and hives. B6 and B12 may also cause rosacia fulminans, a condition that causes facial flushing and acne-like skin changes.
Damage to Extremities
Too much Vitamin B6 can lead to peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by damaged nerves that cause pain and numbness in the extremities. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University peripheral neuropathy can eventually lead to difficulty walking and occurs with long-term supplementation of more than 1,000 mg of vitamin B6 daily. The Office of Dietary Supplements says that nerve damage caused by too much vitamin B6 is reversible once supplementation stops. The Mayo Clinic says too much vitamin B12 can lead to peripheral vascular thrombosis, an arterial blockage in the arms and legs that causes pain, numbness and ulcers.
Additional Side Effects
Other side effects of vitamin B12 according to the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus include diarrhea, a feeling of being swollen, muscle weakness, cramps and pain, excessive thirst and urination, confusion, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, dizziness and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Vitamin B6 is not associated with any additional side effects.
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