Each B vitamin has its own purpose within your body, as well as specific dosage requirements. There are eight types of B vitamins, some of which may have negative effects if you take too much. B vitamins are water-soluble, and not as toxic in high doses as fat-soluble vitamins, but more is not necessarily better. Each B vitamin has its own risks associated with overdose. Taking more than the recommended amount is not advised unless you are under the care of a physician.
Vitamin B-1 Overdose
Vitamin B-1, or thiamine, is necessary for your body to process carbohydrates and digest food. A deficiency of thiamine can cause damage to your nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. The recommended amount of thiamine is 1.1 mg for women and 1.2 mg for men each day. The symptoms of an overdose include throat tightening, breathing difficulty, feeling warm, sweating, weakness, restlessness, nausea, bluish-colored skin and, potentially, death.
Vitamin B-2 Overdose
Vitamin B-2, or riboflavin, is necessary for your body to produce red blood cells and energy. Riboflavin also creates enzymes, which prevent inflammation of the tongue, mouth, skin, eyes and gastrointestinal tract. The usual dose of riboflavin is 1.3 mg per day for a man and 1.1 mg for a woman. If you have exceeded the daily recommendations for vitamin B-2, contact your health-care provider or poison control.
Vitamin B-3 Overdose
Vitamin B-3 is commonly known as niacin and affects how your body gets energy from fat or carbohydrates. Dosage of niacin is usually 16 mg for adult males and 14 mg for adult females distributed in two or three separate doses throughout the day. An overdose can cause skin rashes and flushing, headaches, itching, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and low blood pressure.
Vitamin B-5 Overdose
Vitamin B-5 is also known as pantothenic acid. Your body uses pantothenic acid to break down fats, proteins and carbohydrates into energy. The recommended dose of vitamin B-5 is 1 to 7 mg a day. Taking pantothenic acid in excess may not be toxic, but can cause diarrhea and mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Excess pantothenic acid may also inhibit the absorption of biotin.
Vitamin B-6 Overdose
Vitamin B-6, also called pyrodoxine, produces hemoglobin and energy and is involved in more than 100 metabolic reactions. A standard dose of vitamin B-6 is 1.3 to 17 mg each day. Overdoses of vitamin B-6 can cause a decreased sensation to temperature, vibration or touch. An overdose can also cause staggering, numbness or poor coordination.
Biotin Overdose
Biotin, also called vitamin B-7, is classified as another B vitamin, important for producing energy. Although deficiency is rare and a recommended daily amount has not been established, normal intake is 30 to 100 mcg for adolescents and adults. Taking up to 10 mg a day has not resulted in side effects.
Vitamin B-9 Overdose
Usually referred to as folate or folic acid, vitamin B-9 is necessary for the healthy development of babies in the womb. Red cell formation, heart health, cell division and DNA synthesis are dependent on vitamin B-9. Folic acid needs are 400 mcg for adults, but pregnant women require more. Symptoms of an overdose include mouth and tongue pain, numbness, tingling, confusion, weakness or trouble concentrating.
Vitamin B-12 Overdose
Vitamin B-12, also called cobalamin, assists in the formation of blood cells and helps oxygen get to your tissues. The regular dose for vitamin B-12 is 2.4 mcg daily. While deficiency is common in the elderly, vegetarians and vegans, there is not a concern for overdose. Vitamin B-12 is considered non-toxic even in high doses.
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