What is Pyridoxine?
Pyridoxine is vitamin B6. Vitamins are naturally occurring substances necessary for many processes in the body. Pyridoxine is important for the breakdown of protein, fats, and carbohydrates (sugars) in the foods we eat.
Pyridoxine is used to prevent and to treat deficiencies of pyridoxine that may be caused by an inadequate diet, medications, or genetic problems with metabolism.
Pyridoxine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
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What is the most important information I should know about Pyridoxine?
Do not take more pyridoxine than is prescribed for you or than is directed on the package.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Pyridoxine?
Before taking pyridoxine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements.
Pyridoxine is in the FDA pregnancy category A. This means that pyridoxine is considered to be safe for use during pregnancy. Pyridoxine requirements increase during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before taking pyridoxine if you are pregnant.
Pyridoxine passes into breast milk. Pyridoxine requirements may increase during pregnancy. Doses larger than the recommended daily allowance should be used cautiously under the supervision of a doctor. Talk to your doctor before taking pyridoxine if you are breast-feeding.
Pyridoxine Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of Pyridoxine?
Stop taking pyridoxine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience
- decreased sensation to touch, temperature, and vibration
- poor coordination
- staggering
- numb feet
- awkwardness of the hands
- numbness around the mouth; and
- tiredness
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pyridoxine Interactions
What other drugs affect Pyridoxine?
Before taking pyridoxine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
- levodopa (Dopar, Larodopa, Sinemet, Atamet)
- phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton); or
- phenytoin (Dilantin)
You may not be able to take pyridoxine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with pyridoxine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal/health supplements.
What should I avoid while taking Pyridoxine?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while you are taking pyridoxine unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Pyridoxine Dosage
How should I take Pyridoxine?
Take pyridoxine exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed on the package. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Do not take more pyridoxine than is prescribed for you or than is directed on the package.
Store pyridoxine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I overdose on Pyridoxine?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a pyridoxine overdose may include poor coordination; staggering; numbness; decreased sensation to touch, temperature, and vibration; and tiredness for up to six months.
What happens if I miss a dose of Pyridoxine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com