There’s been quite a bit of media coverage on vitamin B6 lately. It’s important to separate fact from fiction.
Vitamin B6 (or pyridoxine) is a vital nutrient essential for numerous functions in the body, including metabolism, immune defence, brain function, and the production of red blood cells. Due to its well-established health benefits, it is widely used in dietary supplements.
Added vitamin B6 is also found in fortified foods such as cereals and energy drinks, as well as in protein powders and meal replacement shakes.
Most people who take supplements or fortified foods containing vitamin B6 will experience no adverse effects. However, excessive or prolonged intake (whether intentional or accidental) can pose health risks for a small number of individuals.
Sensitive individuals can sometimes experience symptoms at low vitamin B6 intake. The exact reasons why some individuals are more sensitive than others are still not fully understood.
In higher doses, or in individuals with heightened sensitivity, vitamin B6 has been associated with symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, such as tingling, burning, or numbness in the hands and feet. These symptoms can also be caused by vitamin B6 deficiency and a variety of other health conditions, which can make accurate diagnosis of the cause more complex, and something that should always be done in consultation with a healthcare practitioner.
Research and case studies suggest that these effects, though rare, are usually reversible over time upon cessation of use.
How vitamins and supplements are regulated in Australia
Australia maintains one of the most robust regulatory frameworks in the world for complementary medicines, overseen by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
All listed medicines in Australia (with an “AUST L” number on the label) that contain more than 10mg of vitamin B6 per day must carry a mandatory warning label, advising consumers of potential symptoms associated with excessive intake. These warnings must also appear in advertising where a product is directly for sale, ensuring that consumers receive clear guidance at the point of purchase and beyond.
Currently, vitamin B6 supplements that contain up to 100mg are available to be sold over the counter. The TGA recently released an “interim decision” on vitamin B6, which proposes that products with more than 50mg per day should be up-scheduled to Schedule 3 (Pharmacist Only Medicine). This cautious approach would mean any vitamin B6 supplement containing more than 50mg would need to be kept behind the counter at the pharmacy, and sold after consultation with a pharmacist.
Vitamin B6 supplements with 50mg or below would continue to be available over the counter, under the new proposal.
How to choose vitamins and supplements
When choosing a vitamin or supplement, it’s important to look for products that meet Australia’s strict safety and quality standards. Products regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) carry an AUST L, AUST L(A) or AUST R number on the label.
This indicates the product has been supplied in accordance with Australian regulatory requirements. It is particularly important to be aware when shopping online, as imported or unregulated supplements can pose significant health risks due to unknown ingredient quality and poorly regulated product and manufacturing environments.
Products available online containing 200-500mg of vitamin B6 are not Australian regulated products and should be approached with caution.
And always follow the dosage instructions on the label. If you’re unsure or have any questions, check with a healthcare professional who can help you understand your needs.
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