B-complex vitamins are a mix of different B vitamins that include B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12. The B vitamins play important roles in the body that are widespread and varied. If a person has a B-vitamin deficiency, the result can be serious impairment. In contrast, high levels of B vitamins can also be damaging, causing severe problems throughout the body.
Vitamins B1 and B2
The vitamins B1, thiamine, and B2, riboflavin, help the body make energy. Each vitamin also helps to metabolize enzymes that affect nerves, the heart and muscles, according to the American Cancer Society. Vitamin B1 side effects include heart palpitations, insomnia, agitation, hypertension and skin eruptions, reports the Accu-Cell Nutrition website. The side effects of vitamin B2 include nausea, fatigue, vomiting, anemia and hypotension.
Vitamin B3 and B4
The main functions of vitamins B3, niacin, and B4, niacinamide, are energy production in cells. They are important to the skin's health and to maintaining the nervous and digestive systems. Side effects of taking these vitamins may appear as hyperglycemia, nausea, vomiting, headaches, sweating, jaundice and rash, according to Accu-Cell Nutrition.
Vitamin B5 and B6
Vitamin B5, pantothenic acid, assists with growth and development and helps fight anemia. Side effects of taking vitamin B5 include joint pain, edema, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, increased triglycerides, dehydration and depression, reports Accu-Cell Nutrition. Vitamin B6, pyridoxine, helps metabolize protein, maintains red blood cells and has many roles in immune and nervous system health. It also helps to synthesize the brain chemicals norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. Side effects may include numbness in the hands and feet, depression, fatigue, suicidal tendency, mood swings, headaches, hypoglycemia, thyroid problems and nerve degeneration, according to Accu-Cell Nutrition.
Vitamin B7 and B9
Vitamin B7, biotin, helps metabolize carbohydrates and proteins and helps make hormones, reports the American Cancer Society. Side effects may include brittle nails, skin disorders, hair loss, depression, fatigue and anemia. Vitamin B9, folic acid, is required for manufacturing DNA and red blood cells. Vitamin B9 side effects can include abdominal bloating, kidney problems, loss of appetite, nausea and elevated cholesterol. It may also obscure the diagnosis of anemia from vitamin B12 deficiency, reports Accu-Cell Nutrition.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, methylcobalamin, may have a connection to Alzheimer's disease, dementia and general cognitive decline, says the National Institutes of Health. Deficiency may play a role in psychosis and memory problems. Side effects of vitamin B12 may include neurological problems such as a tingling or numbness sensation on the face or arm, anxiety attacks and heart palpitations. Other side effects may include anemia associated with excessive folic acid levels and thyroid or optic nerve problems.
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