Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (various)
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) has been investigated for its potential role in alleviating symptoms of dysmenorrhea, primarily due to its involvement in neurotransmitter synthesis (such as serotonin and dopamine) and its effect on hormone modulation. Several small randomized controlled trials and observational studies have evaluated the efficacy of vitamin B6 supplementation for menstrual pain. Some studies suggest that vitamin B6, alone or in combination with other micronutrients (like magnesium or vitamin E), might reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and associated symptoms such as mood disturbances. However, these studies are generally limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and varying dosages, making it difficult to draw robust conclusions. A 2016 systematic review noted that while there is some evidence for the benefit of vitamin B6 in premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the data specific to dysmenorrhea are limited and less conclusive. The proposed mechanisms for benefit include modulation of prostaglandin synthesis and neurotransmitter balance, which may influence pain perception. Major clinical guidelines do not currently recommend vitamin B6 as a first-line treatment for dysmenorrhea due to the low quality and quantity of evidence. In summary, vitamin B6 is sometimes used in clinical practice for dysmenorrhea, and there is limited scientific evidence suggesting a modest benefit, but the overall quality of evidence is low, and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm efficacy.
Other ingredients used for Dysmenorrhea
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)black cohosh
calcium
chamomile
chaste tree
dong quai root
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
evening primrose oil
fennel
fish oil
ginger
magnesium
motherwort
omega-3 fatty acids
parsley
passionflower
peppermint oil
phytocannabinoids
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
gastrodia
anise
peony
dioscorea
trichosanthes
shepherd's purse
Avens
Ambergris
Angelica
Achyranthes
Anamu
Albizia
Alchemilla
Aletris
Anserina
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Actaea spicata
Agrimonia pilosa
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Arisaema
Blue Cohosh
Blepharis
Boswellia
Bethroot
Boerhavia diffusa
Cohosh
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Cyathula
Corydalis
Didymocarpus
Dong Quai
Erythropalum scandens
Eupolyphaga sinensis
Euphorbia
Pennyroyal
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B6 (various)
AnemiaAnxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Appetite (deficient)
Anger (excessive)
Attention Deficit Disorder
Autism
Burning Feet or Hands
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cramps (menstrual)
Depression
Diabetes
Dysmenorrhea
Emotional Sensitivity
Epilepsy
Fatigue