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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin B6 (specifically in its active form, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate) is scientifically validated for use in treating certain types of convulsions, particularly those resulting from vitamin B6 deficiency or specific metabolic disorders such as pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy. Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate is an essential cofactor in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA deficiency can lead to neuronal hyperexcitability and seizures.

In rare genetic conditions such as antiquitin deficiency (also called pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy), affected infants present with intractable seizures that respond dramatically to pharmacological doses of pyridoxine (vitamin B6). This therapeutic effect is well-documented in numerous case reports and clinical series. Additionally, seizures can occur in cases of severe nutritional B6 deficiency, and supplementation rapidly corrects the neurological manifestations.

However, there is limited evidence that vitamin B6 supplementation is effective for most other types of epilepsy or convulsions where deficiency or metabolic disorders are not present. Large-scale clinical trials do not support its use as a general anticonvulsant in the absence of a clear deficiency or specific metabolic need. In summary, the use of vitamin B6 for convulsions is strongly supported by scientific evidence, but only for specific deficiency-related or metabolic epilepsies.

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