Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 6 Researches
8.7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.2
Supplement Facts
Serving Size:  1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl)
25 mg
1,471%

Top Medical Research Studies

We observed a compelling case involving a 32-year-old pregnant woman who experienced severe anemia during her pregnancy. This specific type of anemia, known as sideroblastic anemia, is quite rare in expectant mothers. The patient had been feeling weak and had heart palpitations for two weeks when she came to the emergency room.

Testing revealed she had an alarming hemoglobin level of just 4.2 g/dl, indicating severe anemia, along with a notably low reticulocyte count. What made this case particularly interesting was her history of recurrent anemia, which occurred exclusively during her pregnancies.

Upon examining her bone marrow, doctors found numerous ring sideroblasts, which confirmed the diagnosis of sideroblastic anemia. Further investigation uncovered extremely low levels of pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, in her system. After administering vitamin B6 replacement therapy, her hemoglobin levels improved significantly without the need for blood transfusions, highlighting the vitamin’s role in managing this type of anemia during pregnancy.
Read More
9.5
VB6 vital for symptomatic anemia
We observed that Vitamin B6 (VB6) plays a crucial role in preventing certain types of anemia, particularly in individuals undergoing treatment for Parkinson's disease. In this case, a 75-year-old man who was receiving levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel therapy developed severe VB6 deficiency anemia. This condition is characterized by microcytic, hypochromic, and sideroblastic blood profiles, which can resemble myelodysplastic syndrome.

The effects of the levodopa/carbidopa treatment were significant because the metabolism of levodopa relies heavily on VB6. Furthermore, the medication carbidopa has an adverse effect—it binds to and deactivates VB6, worsening the deficiency. Fortunately, our findings highlight that the symptoms of VB6 deficiency anemia can be effectively resolved with simple oral supplementation of pyridoxal phosphate hydrate.

This case underlines the necessity of recognizing VB6 deficiency anemia as a potential cause of anemia in patients receiving levodopa/carbidopa, distinguishing it from more serious conditions like myelodysplastic syndrome. Awareness of this link can lead to better diagnosis and treatment of anemia in these patients, emphasizing the importance of monitoring Vitamin B6 levels during treatment.
Read More
We examined how vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, affects different types of anemia through innovative animal models. Specifically, we focused on conditions like X-linked sideroblastic anemia (XLSA) and X-linked protoporphyria (XLPP), which are linked to mutations in a specific enzyme involved in heme biosynthesis.

Our research utilized advanced gene editing techniques to create mouse models that mimic these anemic conditions. This approach allowed us to explore how adjusting dietary vitamin B6 levels impacts symptoms such as anemia and porphyria in these models.

Interestingly, our findings revealed that while XLSA patients often benefit from vitamin B6 supplementation, XLPP showed less sensitivity to this treatment. We also discovered that other related conditions, like congenital sideroblastic anemia (SLC25A38-CSA), reacted extremely negatively to vitamin B6 deficiency—something not seen in a different mouse model of anemia we studied. This unexpected sensitivity suggests that vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in managing specific types of anemia, paving the way for potential new treatment strategies.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

7.5
Increases energy levels
3 people found this helpful
After taking vitamin B6, I noticed a significant boost in energy and less weakness. My gums also improved, which I attributed to previously unnoticed anaemia from a B vitamin deficiency. I had struggled with these issues for a long time.
Read More
9
Improved hair health
1 people found this helpful
I used this for anaemia and hair loss, and it worked excellently alongside other supplements. Thank you, iHerb!
Read More
7.5
Treats high homocysteine
B6 aids in treating anaemia and works best for high homocysteine levels when taken with magnesium.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 6 Researches
8.7
  • All Researches
We observed a compelling case involving a 32-year-old pregnant woman who experienced severe anemia during her pregnancy. This specific type of anemia, known as sideroblastic anemia, is quite rare in expectant mothers. The patient had been feeling weak and had heart palpitations for two weeks when she came to the emergency room.

Testing revealed she had an alarming hemoglobin level of just 4.2 g/dl, indicating severe anemia, along with a notably low reticulocyte count. What made this case particularly interesting was her history of recurrent anemia, which occurred exclusively during her pregnancies.

Upon examining her bone marrow, doctors found numerous ring sideroblasts, which confirmed the diagnosis of sideroblastic anemia. Further investigation uncovered extremely low levels of pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, in her system. After administering vitamin B6 replacement therapy, her hemoglobin levels improved significantly without the need for blood transfusions, highlighting the vitamin’s role in managing this type of anemia during pregnancy.
Read More
9.5
VB6 vital for symptomatic anemia
We observed that Vitamin B6 (VB6) plays a crucial role in preventing certain types of anemia, particularly in individuals undergoing treatment for Parkinson's disease. In this case, a 75-year-old man who was receiving levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel therapy developed severe VB6 deficiency anemia. This condition is characterized by microcytic, hypochromic, and sideroblastic blood profiles, which can resemble myelodysplastic syndrome.

The effects of the levodopa/carbidopa treatment were significant because the metabolism of levodopa relies heavily on VB6. Furthermore, the medication carbidopa has an adverse effect—it binds to and deactivates VB6, worsening the deficiency. Fortunately, our findings highlight that the symptoms of VB6 deficiency anemia can be effectively resolved with simple oral supplementation of pyridoxal phosphate hydrate.

This case underlines the necessity of recognizing VB6 deficiency anemia as a potential cause of anemia in patients receiving levodopa/carbidopa, distinguishing it from more serious conditions like myelodysplastic syndrome. Awareness of this link can lead to better diagnosis and treatment of anemia in these patients, emphasizing the importance of monitoring Vitamin B6 levels during treatment.
Read More
We examined how vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, affects different types of anemia through innovative animal models. Specifically, we focused on conditions like X-linked sideroblastic anemia (XLSA) and X-linked protoporphyria (XLPP), which are linked to mutations in a specific enzyme involved in heme biosynthesis.

Our research utilized advanced gene editing techniques to create mouse models that mimic these anemic conditions. This approach allowed us to explore how adjusting dietary vitamin B6 levels impacts symptoms such as anemia and porphyria in these models.

Interestingly, our findings revealed that while XLSA patients often benefit from vitamin B6 supplementation, XLPP showed less sensitivity to this treatment. We also discovered that other related conditions, like congenital sideroblastic anemia (SLC25A38-CSA), reacted extremely negatively to vitamin B6 deficiency—something not seen in a different mouse model of anemia we studied. This unexpected sensitivity suggests that vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in managing specific types of anemia, paving the way for potential new treatment strategies.
Read More
9
Vitamin B6 treatment limitations highlighted
We explored the effectiveness of vitamin B6 in treating anemia, particularly within the context of congenital sideroblastic anemia (CSA). CSA is caused by genetic mutations that disrupt iron utilization and lead to ineffective red blood cell production. While vitamin B6 is a common initial treatment for some types of anemia, we observed that it does not work for everyone. Specifically, some patients with CSA had been treated with vitamin B6 and iron chelators, yet they remained unresponsive.

In our review of two cases involving patients with mutations in the ALAS2 and SLC25A38 genes, we noted that after failing to respond to vitamin B6, these individuals turned to a newer treatment known as luspatercept. This medication helped them attain transfusion independence and significantly reduced their spleen size. Therefore, while vitamin B6 might be effective for some, this study highlights its limitations, showing that it does not provide adequate solutions for all patients with CSA.
Read More
We explored the case of a 10-year-old boy diagnosed with congenital sideroblastic anemia (CSA). This condition can lead to severe anemia due to the body’s ineffective production of red blood cells. As part of the investigation, we performed various blood tests and conducted gene mutation analysis to identify any underlying causes.

We identified a novel genetic variant (c.1102C > T:p. Arg368Trp) that seemed to play a significant role in this boy's anemia. Notably, the treatment regimen included vitamin B6, known to help in certain cases of sideroblastic anemia, along with another medication called deferasirox. After six months of treatment, the patient saw significant improvement; his hemoglobin levels rose significantly, and iron overload was managed effectively.

While our findings suggest that vitamin B6 can be beneficial for some patients with CSA, it was combined with deferasirox in this instance. Consequently, isolating the exact impact of vitamin B6 on the anemia proves challenging. Nevertheless, this case highlights the importance of mutational analysis and tailored treatments in managing inherited blood disorders.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.2
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
7.5
Increases energy levels
3 people found this helpful
After taking vitamin B6, I noticed a significant boost in energy and less weakness. My gums also improved, which I attributed to previously unnoticed anaemia from a B vitamin deficiency. I had struggled with these issues for a long time.
Read More
9
Improved hair health
1 people found this helpful
I used this for anaemia and hair loss, and it worked excellently alongside other supplements. Thank you, iHerb!
Read More
7.5
Treats high homocysteine
B6 aids in treating anaemia and works best for high homocysteine levels when taken with magnesium.
Read More
6
Supports immunity
Benefits of vitamin B6 include support for the nervous system, aiding with anaemia, reducing nausea, and improving immunity. Overall, I am very satisfied with its effects.
Read More
7.5
Prevents headaches
I purchased this to prevent headaches and anaemia, taking it alongside B12 and niacin. When combined, I find it effective, along with my protein intake for better efficiency.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

7.5
Increases energy levels
3 people found this helpful
After taking vitamin B6, I noticed a significant boost in energy and less weakness. My gums also improved, which I attributed to previously unnoticed anaemia from a B vitamin deficiency. I had struggled with these issues for a long time.
9
Improved hair health
1 people found this helpful
I used this for anaemia and hair loss, and it worked excellently alongside other supplements. Thank you, iHerb!
6
Supports immunity
Benefits of vitamin B6 include support for the nervous system, aiding with anaemia, reducing nausea, and improving immunity. Overall, I am very satisfied with its effects.
7.5
Prevents headaches
I purchased this to prevent headaches and anaemia, taking it alongside B12 and niacin. When combined, I find it effective, along with my protein intake for better efficiency.
7.5
Treats high homocysteine
B6 aids in treating anaemia and works best for high homocysteine levels when taken with magnesium.
We observed a compelling case involving a 32-year-old pregnant woman who experienced severe anemia during her pregnancy. This specific type of anemia, known as sideroblastic anemia, is quite rare in expectant mothers. The patient had been feeling weak and had heart palpitations for two weeks when she came to the emergency room.

Testing revealed she had an alarming hemoglobin level of just 4.2 g/dl, indicating severe anemia, along with a notably low reticulocyte count. What made this case particularly interesting was her history of recurrent anemia, which occurred exclusively during her pregnancies.

Upon examining her bone marrow, doctors found numerous ring sideroblasts, which confirmed the diagnosis of sideroblastic anemia. Further investigation uncovered extremely low levels of pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, in her system. After administering vitamin B6 replacement therapy, her hemoglobin levels improved significantly without the need for blood transfusions, highlighting the vitamin’s role in managing this type of anemia during pregnancy.
We examined how vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, affects different types of anemia through innovative animal models. Specifically, we focused on conditions like X-linked sideroblastic anemia (XLSA) and X-linked protoporphyria (XLPP), which are linked to mutations in a specific enzyme involved in heme biosynthesis.

Our research utilized advanced gene editing techniques to create mouse models that mimic these anemic conditions. This approach allowed us to explore how adjusting dietary vitamin B6 levels impacts symptoms such as anemia and porphyria in these models.

Interestingly, our findings revealed that while XLSA patients often benefit from vitamin B6 supplementation, XLPP showed less sensitivity to this treatment. We also discovered that other related conditions, like congenital sideroblastic anemia (SLC25A38-CSA), reacted extremely negatively to vitamin B6 deficiency—something not seen in a different mouse model of anemia we studied. This unexpected sensitivity suggests that vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in managing specific types of anemia, paving the way for potential new treatment strategies.
9
Vitamin B6 treatment limitations highlighted
We explored the effectiveness of vitamin B6 in treating anemia, particularly within the context of congenital sideroblastic anemia (CSA). CSA is caused by genetic mutations that disrupt iron utilization and lead to ineffective red blood cell production. While vitamin B6 is a common initial treatment for some types of anemia, we observed that it does not work for everyone. Specifically, some patients with CSA had been treated with vitamin B6 and iron chelators, yet they remained unresponsive.

In our review of two cases involving patients with mutations in the ALAS2 and SLC25A38 genes, we noted that after failing to respond to vitamin B6, these individuals turned to a newer treatment known as luspatercept. This medication helped them attain transfusion independence and significantly reduced their spleen size. Therefore, while vitamin B6 might be effective for some, this study highlights its limitations, showing that it does not provide adequate solutions for all patients with CSA.
7
Vitamin B6 aids specific anemias
We observed that vitamin B6 plays a significant role in the treatment of certain types of anemia, particularly in cases related to congenital sideroblastic anemia. In these instances, vitamin B6 can help spur the body's ability to produce healthy red blood cells, which are essential for transporting oxygen throughout our bodies.

However, it's important to note that the effects of vitamin B6 aren't universally effective for all anemia types. Its use primarily appears beneficial as a part of a broader supportive treatment strategy. For those with conditions like myelodysplastic syndromes, the treatment approach is more complex and may not rely primarily on vitamin B6 alone.

Despite these limitations, vitamin B6 remains a key player in managing specific cases of anemia, showing effectiveness that can often lead to improved outcomes for patients. It highlights how personalized treatment plans are crucial, as the situation can vary significantly from one individual to another.

References

  1. Cai J, Liu T, Huang Y, Chen H, Yu M, et al. A novel and apparent missense variant associated with congenital sideroblastic anemia. Front Pediatr. 2024;12:1411676. doi:10.3389/fped.2024.1411676
  2. Ducamp S, Sendamarai AK, Campagna DR, Chin DWL, Fujiwara Y, et al. Murine models of erythroid 5ALA synthesis disorders and their conditional synthetic lethal dependency on pyridoxine. Blood. 2024;144:1418. doi:10.1182/blood.2023023078
  3. Shao Y, He L, Ding S, Fu R. Luspatercept for the treatment of congenital sideroblastic anemia: Two case reports. Curr Res Transl Med. 2024;72:103438. doi:10.1016/j.retram.2024.103438
  4. Mohamed S, Ibrahim F, Alasafar MN, Alshurafa A, Akiki S, et al. Recurrent sideroblastic anemia during pregnancy. Clin Case Rep. 2023;11:e6814. doi:10.1002/ccr3.6814
  5. Yasuda H, Hatano T, Honda T, Tsutsui M, Hattori N, et al. Vitamin B6 Deficiency Anemia Attributed to Levodopa/Carbidopa Intestinal Gel Therapy for Parkinson's Disease: A Diagnostic Pitfall for Myelodysplastic Syndrome with Ring Sideroblasts. Intern Med. 2022;61:3719. doi:10.2169/internalmedicine.9577-22
  6. Abu-Zeinah G, DeSancho MT. Understanding Sideroblastic Anemia: An Overview of Genetics, Epidemiology, Pathophysiology and Current Therapeutic Options. J Blood Med. 2020;11:305. doi:10.2147/JBM.S232644
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