Pyridoxine hydrochloride, also called vitamin B6, was first isolated in the 1930s, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Vitamin B6 cannot be synthesized in the body and must instead be obtained through the diet or through supplementation. Although the vitamin plays a number of key roles in the body, including facilitating communication in the nervous system and generating red blood cells, vitamin B6 can cause unwanted side effects.
Photosensitivity
One possible negative side effect of vitamin B6 is increased photosensitivity, or sensitivity to the sun. Normally, skin cells contain proteins and chemicals that help the cells adjust to exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun, and avoid or correct the genetic damage during sun exposure that can eventually lead to skin cancer. In some cases, vitamin D supplementation can increase photosensitivity, leaving patients more vulnerable to sunburn, especially in patients already taking amiodarone, brand name Cordarone, a heart medication, according to MedlinePlus. To reduce your risk of sunburn and decrease the effects of photosensitivity due to vitamin B6 supplementation, MedlinePlus recommends wearing sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn and sun damage.
Sensory Nerve Damage
In some cases, oversupplementation of vitamin B6 can cause sensory nerve damage, causing numbness, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sensory nerves throughout the body normally respond to pressure, vibration and temperature to provide the sensation of touch. Damage to these nerves can cause a sensation of pins and needles, abnormal pain and eventually numbness as the nerves stop accurately transmitting information to the central nervous system. Taking very high doses of pyridoxine hydrochloride can cause nerve toxicity, damaging the nerves to the point of numbness. If you are considering taking vitamin B6 supplements, consult a physician to help determine the correct dosage to meet your needs and prevent nerve damage.
Interactions With Medication
Vitamin B6 may also interfere with the functioning of certain medications in the body. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, vitamin B6 can form complexes with certain medications. These complexes lead to a decrease in the available vitamin B6 in the body, potentially leading to vitamin B6 deficiency. In addition, the complex may decrease the efficacy of the medication, as drug molecules bound to vitamin B6 may not be used properly in cells. If you are taking anti-tuberculosis, anti-Parkinsonian or metal chelator medications, consult your physician to determine the risks of vitamin B6 supplementation for your condition.
Member Comments