Uses
Pyridoxine, vitamin B6, is required by your body for utilization of energy in the foods you eat, production of red blood cells, and proper functioning of nerves. It is used to treat and prevent vitamin B6 deficiency resulting from poor diet, certain medications, and some medical conditions.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Side Effects Of Pyridoxine
Pyridoxine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- headache
- sleepiness
- tingling, prickling, burning, or sensation of tightness of the hands and feet
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking pyridoxine:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pyridoxine or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially levodopa (Larodopa, Sinemet), phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin), and other vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking pyridoxine, call your doctor.
Pyridoxine Dosage
Pyridoxine comes in regular and extended-release (long-acting) tablets. It usually is taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label or the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take pyridoxine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not chew, crush, or cut extended-release tablets; swallow them whole.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to pyridoxine.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
