Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)
For the health condition: Alcoholism

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal) is scientifically used as part of the management of alcoholism, primarily due to the high prevalence of vitamin B6 deficiency among individuals with chronic alcohol use. Alcohol interferes with the absorption, metabolism, and storage of several B vitamins, including B6. Deficiency of vitamin B6 can contribute to neurological symptoms (such as peripheral neuropathy, cognitive dysfunction, and seizures) and anemia, both of which are common complications in people with alcohol use disorder.

Several clinical guidelines recommend B vitamin supplementation, often as part of a B-complex or multivitamin regimen, for individuals who are detoxifying from alcohol or undergoing rehabilitation, to prevent or treat deficiencies. The primary scientific rationale is not that B6 itself treats alcoholism or reduces cravings, but that it helps correct nutritional deficits that can worsen symptoms and complicate recovery. There is some evidence from observational and interventional studies that correcting B6 deficiency can improve neurological and hematological outcomes in this population.

However, there is limited evidence that vitamin B6 supplementation alone has a direct impact on alcohol dependence or relapse rates. Its use is justified as supportive care to address comorbid deficiencies rather than as a primary treatment for alcoholism itself.

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