What are the side effects of vitamin B6?

Mar 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, vitamin B6 may be available in various dosage forms such as tablets and injections. Possible side effects include abnormal sensations, unsteady gait, skin problems, liver function abnormalities, and psychiatric symptoms. When using vitamin B6, it is essential to strictly follow the doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment; do not adjust the dose arbitrarily by yourself. If any adverse symptoms occur during medication, inform your doctor promptly.

Generally, vitamin B6 is available in various dosage forms such as tablets and injections. Its potential side effects may include sensory abnormalities, gait instability, skin problems, abnormal liver function, and psychiatric symptoms. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Sensory abnormalities

Long-term or excessive intake of vitamin B6 may affect the normal function of the nervous system, interfering with the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters, leading to abnormal sensory nerve function. Patients may experience numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or reduced sensation in the hands and feet. These symptoms typically begin at the extremities and may gradually worsen or spread proximally.

2. Gait instability

Excessive vitamin B6 affecting nervous system function can interfere with the body's sense of balance and coordination. Due to impaired neural control and regulation of muscles, patients may experience unsteady walking, swaying, or falling easily, which affects normal mobility. This condition typically appears after a period of sensory abnormalities.

3. Skin problems

Excessive intake of vitamin B6 may impair normal skin metabolism and immune function, damaging the skin's barrier function and causing various abnormal reactions such as dryness, itching, rashes, and seborrheic dermatitis. Skin problems may not only affect appearance but also cause discomfort—for example, itching may lead to scratching, further damaging the skin.

4. Liver function abnormalities

A large amount of vitamin B6 being metabolized in the body can increase the burden on the liver, affecting the normal function and metabolic processes of liver cells, leading to impaired liver function. Liver function tests may reveal elevated levels of indicators such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

5. Psychiatric symptoms

Vitamin B6 has broad effects on the nervous system. Excessive intake may severely disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters, impairing normal brain function and causing abnormal mental states. Patients may experience symptoms such as depression, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, memory loss, and confusion, which can significantly impact daily life and mental health.

When using vitamin B6, it is essential to strictly follow the doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. Do not adjust the dose on your own. If any adverse reactions occur during treatment, promptly inform your doctor so that appropriate measures can be taken.

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