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

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate) has scientific validation for use in the treatment of certain types of convulsions, specifically those caused by Vitamin B6 deficiency or genetic disorders affecting B6 metabolism. The most notable condition is pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy (PDE), a rare autosomal recessive disorder usually presenting in neonates or infants with intractable seizures. PDE results from mutations in the ALDH7A1 gene, leading to accumulation of metabolites that disrupt normal neurotransmitter synthesis. Pyridoxine, administered intravenously or orally, can stop seizures rapidly in these patients, often within minutes or hours. There are numerous case reports and clinical studies documenting the efficacy of B6 supplementation in these patients. Additionally, B6 deficiency (due to malnutrition, certain medications, or metabolic disorders) can cause seizures, particularly in infants, and supplementation is a recognized treatment in such cases.

However, B6 is not generally effective for seizures or convulsions of other etiologies (such as idiopathic epilepsy or febrile seizures in otherwise healthy individuals). Its use in these contexts is not supported by clinical trials. The evidence base for B6’s use in convulsions is therefore rated as 4/5, as it is highly effective—but only in specific, clearly defined medical contexts.

More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)
More about Convulsions

Products containing Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.