Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)
For the health condition: Attention Deficit Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD), primarily due to its involvement in neurotransmitter synthesis, including dopamine and serotonin, which are implicated in attention and behavior regulation. Some small clinical studies and case reports have explored the use of vitamin B6, alone or in combination with magnesium, for ADHD/ADD symptoms. For example, a few small trials from the late 20th century suggested that vitamin B6, especially combined with magnesium, might improve hyperactivity and attention in some children. However, these studies often had methodological limitations such as small sample sizes, lack of blinding, and inconsistent diagnostic criteria.

More recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that there is insufficient high-quality evidence to support the routine use of vitamin B6 supplementation in managing ADD/ADHD. Large, randomized controlled trials are lacking, and the few available studies show inconsistent results. Major clinical guidelines do not recommend vitamin B6 as standard therapy for ADHD. That said, vitamin B6 deficiency can theoretically worsen neurobehavioral symptoms, so supplementation may be justified in cases of deficiency, but not as a general treatment for ADD/ADHD.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and limited research suggesting a possible benefit, the current evidence base is weak (2/5), and vitamin B6 is not broadly validated or widely recommended for ADD/ADHD treatment.

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