Pyridoxine or vitamin B6 is a supplement used to treat or prevent vitamin B6 deficiency.
It may also be used to treat nerve damage caused by isoniazid (medicine used to treat a lung infection called tuberculosis).
This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Pyridoxine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and response to the medication.
Pyridoxine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Pyridoxine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Nerve conduction test may be done if you are being treated with this medicine for a long time. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have this test.
- Close monitoring of signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage that causes tingling, numbness, and pain usually in the hands and feet) may also be needed.
Pyridoxine may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, drowsiness, and headache.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience tingling, numbness, and pain in your hands and feet.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. phenobarbital, phenytoin
- medicines to treat TB (lung infection known as tuberculosis) e.g. isoniazid, cycloserine
- levodopa (medicine for Parkinson's disease [disorder that affects the movement of a person])
- altretamine (medicine for cancer)
- hydralazine (medicine for high blood pressure)
- penicillamine (medicine for heavy metal poisoning)
- birth control pills
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pyridoxine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from excessive heat, light and moisture.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.