Vitamin B6 from HealthAid, Viridian, Biocare, Natures Aid, Lamberts and Quest – capsules, tablets and Nutrisorb liquid, at a range of strengths.
B6 contributes to normal psychological function and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. High intakes taken over long periods have been associated with nerve damage, so this is one to take at a sensible amount rather than a large one.
We are putting this before anything else because it is the thing that matters. Vitamin B6 is the one B vitamin where taking a great deal for a long time carries a genuine risk – sustained high intakes have been associated with peripheral nerve damage, which can present as tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
There are products on this shelf at 100mg. That is not a strength to take indefinitely on your own initiative. If you want to take B6 at a high strength for any length of time, that is a conversation with your GP first, and it is worth having.
The B vitamins work together, which is why Viridian's High Six pairs B6 with the rest of the group rather than selling it alone. Taking one B vitamin in isolation at a high level over a long period is generally not the approach.
If your reason for looking at B6 is general tiredness, a B complex or a multivitamin is the more sensible starting point and considerably harder to overdo.
Biocare's Nutrisorb is a liquid taken by the drop, which makes a small amount easy to measure – genuinely useful for a vitamin where the amount matters. Tablets and capsules are simpler if you want the same every day.
Some products use pyridoxal-5-phosphate, the active form, rather than pyridoxine hydrochloride. Either is fine for most people. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking prescribed medication, check with a pharmacist before starting.
FAQ
Can I take too much vitamin B6?
Yes. Unlike most B vitamins, sustained high intakes of B6 have been associated with nerve damage. Take a sensible amount and speak to your GP before taking a high strength long term.
What are the signs of taking too much?
Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet is the reported effect. If you notice anything like that, stop and speak to your GP.
Should I take B6 alone or in a complex?
A complex, generally. The B vitamins work together and a complex is much harder to overdo.
What is pyridoxal-5-phosphate?
The active form of B6, used in some products instead of pyridoxine hydrochloride. Either suits most people.
